Parliament begins inquiry into business carbon emissions
A House of Commons group has embarked on an inquiry into ways that business premises can reduce their carbon output. There are worries that not enough is being done to control the environmental impact of commercial properties such as offices, shops and factories. It is estimated that business buildings produce some 20 per cent of all CO2 emissions in the UK. The inquiry is being led by the All Party Urban Development Group and will look at changes that could be made to cut the energy use of existing buildings. A report will be submitted to the government in the summer. Clive Betts MP, the committee chairman, said: “Debate has so far largely focused on the carbon footprint of people’s homes. Less attention has been paid to the energy efficiency of commercial buildings.” Mr Betts added: “This inquiry will help fill that gap by exploring how cities can work with property owners and their occupiers to help ‘green’ commercial buildings.” The All Party Urban Development Group is likely to urge the government to introduce guidance on how to reduce emissions from business premises, along with financial incentives for businesses and a coherent method of assessing and reporting on the problem. There are currently no targets set for tackling CO2 emissions from commercial properties, but the government will be implementing policies aimed at promoting carbon reduction among businesses. As from October all commercial buildings in England and Wales will need to assess the energy efficiency of their premises and to display an Energy Performance Certificate. The assessment will not, however, involve any emission goals or invoke any penalties. Date:18 April 2008
|