The HVCA backs government carbon plan

The Government has set out its action plan for the next six months for decarbonising the built environment acknowledging the need to reform public procurement.

It will publish quarterly a two-year forward programme of infrastructure projects to give more certainty to the sector to invest in low carbon. The Prime Minister has also confirmed his commitment to the Better Public Building Awards which will have a new focus on low carbon to promote best practice.

The Cabinet Office has already published the Government’s new Construction strategy including the requirement for 3D Building Information Modelling to be used on Government projects by 2016 to improve the way carbon emissions from our new and existing building stock are managed.

It has followed this up with a response to the industry’s Innovation and Growth Team report, presented by Government Chief Construction Advisor Paul Morrell last November.

Opportunities
The HVCA agrees with Business Minister Mark Prisk that a decarbonising plan on the scale indicated by Mr Morrell will create massive business opportunities.

“An efficient, effective and profitable construction industry is at the heart of any growing economy," the Minister said.“Meeting the UK’s commitment to reducing carbon will affect every aspect of the built environment and has the potential to provide the construction industry with a 40 year programme of work creating great opportunities for growth in the sector. 

“Through this joint Government and industry action plan we are making a clear commitment to the low carbon transition which will create the certainty needed for construction companies to invest in essential new skills, processes and products.”

HVCA deputy chief executive Roderick Pettigrew commented: "We have been working closely with government departments on the detail for delivering a low carbon built environment and have clearly demonstrated how the use of modern procurement practices and integrate teams will both reduce costs and improve carbon performance."

Government Chief Construction Advisor Paul Morrell added:“I am delighted that the Government has taken on board so many of the recommendations from the IGT report which was developed with expertise from across industry.“

To ensure that construction rises to the low carbon challenge we need to continue this new level of cooperation so I am also pleased that a joint Government and industry board has been set up to ensure implementation of this plan.”