The European Energy Network (ENR) has called on European nations to set tougher deadlines for the uptake of environmentally-friendly green building codes.

Most EU governments have already set targets for carbon reduction over the coming years - with the UK pledging to reduce emissions 60 per cent by 2050 - but the ENR says more immediate action is required.

It labelled the implementation of legislation over green buildings "disappointingly slow," noting that three quarters of member states had defied EU regulations by stalling certifications schemes for houses.

Outlining potential solutions to the problem, the network proposed that EU nations sign up to a binding treaty that sets out a roadmap for making all new homes zero carbon, primarily through reliance on energy efficient insulation and renewable on-site generators.

"The European commission needs to take some leadership and set a timetable for all new buildings around Europe to be zero carbon," Philip Sellwood, chief executive of ENR-affiliate the Energy Saving Trust (EST), told the BBC.

Prime minister Gordon Brown has already pledged to make all new homes zero carbon by 2020, but environmental groups have questioned how binding that commitment is.


© Adfero Ltd

Author:  Joanne McCabe

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