The UK Government's target to make all new homes carbon zero by 2016 originally demanded that all emissions from the homes and from within must not be over zero over the course of a year. This definition was Level 6 of the Code for Sustainable Homes - of which only a handful of schemes has achieved.
A new definition of Carbon Zero
The Government has set to develop a new definition of Carbon Zero which would allow the target for Carbon Zero Homes by 2016 to be achievable and cost effective.
Elements Europe has to date completed homes to Level 4 of the Sustainable Homes Code, using traditional brick block methods, timber frame and off-site Modern Methods of Construction. This sustainable housing system, called Ty Unnos, is Elements Europe's in-house system which almost achieves Passivhaus standards.
Home Owner Education
The achievement of Carbon Zero by 2016 is however not just about the House Builders - the use by home owners is just as important. Kevin Arthur, Elements Europe, comments
"We feel that education of the home owner is just as important as improving thermal performance, as if the dwelling is not used in the correct manner, the environmental features of the home can be worthless. Additionally consumer demand can also impact the build of homes, as there are always question marks over whether increased sustainability features can effect the practicalities of the home."
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