The code for sustainable homes in the UK: affordability and future

Kulatunga, U; Amaratunga, RDG

Abstract

UK agreed to reduce 80% of emissions by year 2050. Government therefore expects to ensure
sustainable homes with emissions are available to all householders in the UK. Accordingly, new
legislations are enforced to ensure that all new homes are adhered to Code for Sustainable Homes
(CSH). CSH is a national standard rating system to guide the industry in having sustainable
design and construction. Despite the obvious benefits such as lowered emissions and energy
efficiencies, CSH indicates problems of affordability especially during current economic
downturn.
The paper examines the UK code for sustainable homes and evaluates benefits and challenges it
has. The paper also investigates whether the sustainable homes concept along with the green
construction could be affected by the economic downturn in the UK. A comprehensive literature
review based on recent government reports, journal articles and books is carried out to fulfil the
aim of this paper. The research findings witness the up-front cost of integral green features that
needs to be used as part of the CSH hence both consumers’ and construction clients’ incapability
to bear the high costs. To improve supply side, the UK government provides “green loans” and
other incentive for developers and consumers. With the improvements in the demand market, CSH
would lead to create more “green jobs” in the supply chain. Further, the sustainable home
development will play an important role to bring prosperity in construction industry and the
overall economy.

• Presentation Conference Type: Other
• Conference Name: International research conference on sustainability in built environment
• End Date: Jun 19, 2010
• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2010
• Deposit Date: Sep 15, 2010
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 15, 2010
• Keywords: Climate change, Code for Sustainable Homes, Construction Industry, Recession
• Publisher URL: http://www.becon.mrt.ac.lk/caslebemru/Conference_Pro.pdf
• Additional Information: Event Type : Conference