The assembly says the way in which buildings are constructed accounts for 40% of total carbon emissions in the country and will do ‘everything it can’ to change this.

In England, the UK Government, is relying on levels of sustainability to be met by developers on a voluntary basis, and for local authorities to adopt them in their development plans.

Under the new rules, announced today (7 May) builders will have to reduce building’s carbon emissions by more than 31% compared to current regulations, reduce water use and build with sustainable materials

Jane Davidson, environment, sustainability and housing minister, said: “I am determined to use the planning system to move towards zero carbon buildings.

“Making our buildings greener will play an important part in reducing our carbon footprint as the built environment is the largest contributor to greenhouse gasses in Wales.

Housing proposals will be expected to meet the code for sustainable homes level three and non-domestic buildings will be expected to meet the BREEM ‘Very Good’ standard as a minimum.

Luke Walsh

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