Why is there a need for BREEAM & Code for Sustainable Homes?

The global climate is changing; this has been attributed to a now widely accepted phenomenon, known as the greenhouse effect. The continual increase of the world’s population and improving standards of living have resulted in an ever growing requirement for energy to facilitate demand. Whilst the search for new sources of energy and types of fuel has previously been the priority, there has now been a shift towards finding methods of reducing demand. This has been partially realised through improved efficiency of production machinery and transport vehicles. Analysis of the breakdown of energy use by sector reveals that the processes providing space heating within buildings are a significant contributor to the overall figure.

The 160 million buildings in the European Union use over 40% of Europe’s energy and create over 40% of its carbon dioxide emissions. These percentage contributions are continuing to rise. Under the Kyoto protocol, all member states are committed to either curb, or reduce their total CO2 emissions, depending on the country’s current output.

Logos for various bodies