The Future of Green Homes
The world has an ever-growing population. Therefore we can expect to see many more houses being built, to accommodate the growing population. New-build houses give neighbourhoods a fresh and modern look. But they also boost the economy significantly.
However, we cannot ignore the fact that house building will contribute to the impact we, as humans, are having on the environment. The construction of new houses involves many different stages. Including preparation of the ground, which can disrupt habitats and pollute air and water. Therefore many house builders are looking for more environmentally friendly approaches and ways of building homes. With 45% of the UK’s CO2 emissions coming from construction, changes are needed.
How Things are Changing
Sustainability standards are increasing in the UK & Ireland. These include raw materials, transportation, manufacturing resources, and emissions. Plus there are new energy efficiency standards for businesses and homes (existing and new), which were announced at the beginning of 2021.
The Future is Timber
At Think Timber we deal with only one raw material on a daily basis, Timber! However many other companies involved in the different aspects of house building are turning to timber. Because of its positive attributes, we believe demand for this material is only set to increase.
Timber is the only 100% sustainable construction material because of the sustainable forestry practices in place. Plus a typical timber house can store, on average, about 4 tonnes of CO2.
Timber Frames
Many have stated that the return to timber frame construction is the way forward. With timber frame housing easier to produce, and around 30% faster to build. It will be crucial in countries’ efforts to have net-zero emissions. Plus timber frame construction creates less overall waste in its production than brick, plastic, concrete, or steel. This means that investors can build sites quicker and save money. Scotland has started to produce new houses with timber frames, with over 75% of new homes now using timber for the frame.
Within the Home
In order to meet the Government’s target to reduce all greenhouse gas emissions to net-zero for 2050. All homes will be highly energy-efficient, have low carbon levels, approx 75-80% lower than current levels. To reach this number, new homes are expected to have 31% lower carbon emissions from this year. However, the Future Homes standard won’t be implemented until 2025.
Although homeowners can make changes within their homes which can reduce the number of resources we use. Improvements could include smart technology which controls heating, lighting, and electricity usage. Many have also been encouraged to buy homes that can be renovated. As opposed to buying new. Thus saving considerably, by making improvements to cheaper properties.
Our Approach
At Think Timber, we are committed to challenging conventional industry standards. We look for innovative solutions and commercially-driven approaches to business. It’s important to move with the times and adapt product offerings to what the industry desires.
Get in touch at hello@thinktimber.co.uk, to discuss the future of greener homes and how we are adapting to become even more environmentally friendly.
Resources used:
Back to Blogs