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• Policy Initiatives
  • Planning Policy Statement 22
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• Funding Programmes
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    • The Dimplex Solution – Phase 1
    • Programme Funding – Phase 2
    • The Dimplex Solution – Phase 2
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    • Programme Funding
    • The Dimplex Solution

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The code is a voluntary initiative, by Government and Industry, to actively promote the transformation of the building industry towards more sustainable practices by requiring buildings that use:

• Energy resources more efficiently;
• Water resources more efficiently;
• Material resources more efficiently; and
• Practices and materials designed to safeguard occupant's health and well being.

This is intended not only to reduce the impact of new developments on the environment but may also save in running costs.

How Will The Code Work?

A consultation for the code was issued in December 2005, outlining the following proposals:

• The Code as proposed will have five performance levels from a basic entry level to an aspirational carbon-neutral 'five star' development.
• The levels are defined by a points scoring system out of a maximum of 100. It is suggested that the points can be earned by a combination of performance standards which must be met, and optional 'tradeable' elements that may be met.
• The Code as currently proposed will have six essential elements. These are:
  • Energy Efficiency in the fabric of the building and appliances in the building. This covers, for example, the standard of insulation or the use of renewables as part of the heating system;
  • Water Efficiency, for example, fitting dual or low flush toilets and reduced flow taps;
  • Surface Water Management, for example sustainable drainage;
  • Site Waste Management, as building construction is responsible for a significant proportion of waste that currently goes to landfill;
  • Household Waste Management, this means providing space for bins, such as segmented kitchen bins for recycling waste;
  • Use of Materials, for example, using low allergy materials.
• Minimum standards will be set for each essential element and all of these must be achieved if a home is to meet Code standards. Where there is a relevant building regulation, then the minimum Code standard will at least equal or exceed it.
• Those familiar with EcoHomes will recognise that the Code owes much to the BREEAM system developed by the Building Research Establishment and BRE has helped develop the Code. It is intended that EcoHomes and the Code will converge so that there will be a single national standard for the sustainability performance of new dwellings.
• The Code is intended to be voluntary for private developments, but it is likely that all social housing developments will be required to achieve a Level 3 standard in order to attract Housing Corporation funding.
• The energy element of the code will be based around carbon dioxide emissions.

More information on the code and the Sustainable Buildings Task Force can be found at
http://www.defra.gov.uk/Environment/energy/betterbuildings.htm