Entries for July 2009

Concrete made from recycled materials from demolished buildings and cladding from banana plants were among the research projects on display at the launch of Kingston University’s new sustainability hub.

With the growing number of government plans to cut carbon emissions for an eco friendly future for householders, The Carbon Trust, whose mission it is to fire up the UK’s move to a low carbon economy, is spreading awareness of other green aspects that could be explored.

New Soil Association is searching for a design team with experience of obtaining BREEAM 'Outstanding/Excellent' ratings who would re-use the historically important construction and provide a environmentally-friendly refurbishment.

The country’s leading environmental organisations joined the Land Restoration Trust to launch Muckin4Life, a new campaign to get people healthy by supporting them in taking an active role in the environment.

Before we went into the recession, we witnessed significant demand for “sustainable property” and according to many it is likely that it will again be in demand as we come out of it – so long as its performance is up to the mark.

Marcus Roberts, director, Savills (L&P) surveys the UK student accommodation market which is benefiting from a variety of factors at the moment despite, to some extent, being caught up in the overall economic downturn.

The contract comprises a new construction for a community building to provide facilities for leisure, education and training. The design will be an eco-friendly, sustainable building which will deliver a low carbon footprint. 

Vulnerable people in Portslade, East Sussex can now enjoy new sustainable and modern lodgings, as final construction has recently been completed on a hostel in the Brighton suburb.

A new task group has been set up by the UK Green Building Council to discuss the challenges and solutions of delivering low carbon infrastructure such as community heating, water harvesting and renewables.

In recent weeks there has been much debate about the nature of the current recession; how long will it last and what will be its impact on property markets?

BRE is to publish the third edition of its Roofs and Roofing book, which aims to give practical information on how to ensure good performance and avoid mistakes, in mid-July.

Is it time sustainable building technology devoted a little less time to redevelopment or radical reconstruction when dealing with the humble terrace?

The American Clean Energy and Security Bill was passed by the House of Representatives last month; legislation promised to create “jobs by millions, save money by billions” once it gets the green light.