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<p><em><strong>4 Minute Read Time</strong></em></p><h3>A Paradigm Shift in Building Standards</h3><p>In December 2023, the UK government initiated a pivotal dialogue on the future of our built environment. This was not just a regulatory update; it was a philosophical shift. The Future Homes and Buildings Standards consultation proposed revisions to Parts 6, L, and F of the Building Regulations, targeting both residential and non-domestic structures. This move reflects a deeper understanding of our relationship with the environment and the structures we inhabit. The ambition? To align our physical spaces with a vision that extends beyond mere utility and delves into sustainability and environmental responsibility <a data-mce-href="https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/the-future-homes-and-buildings-standards-2023-consultation#:~:text=URL%3A%20https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fgovernment%2Fconsultations%2Fthe" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/the-future-homes-and-buildings-standards-2023-consultation#:~:text=URL%3A%20https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gov.uk%2Fgovernment%2Fconsultations%2Fthe" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>["]</strong></a>.</p><h3>Commercial Buildings Under the Microscope</h3><p>Commercial buildings, the skeletal framework of our economic activities, now face a transformative challenge. These structures, which have long stood as symbols of industrial progress and commercial prowess, are being reimagined. They are no longer just spaces for trade and commerce; they are becoming stewards of environmental responsibility. The proposed Future Buildings Standard, with its focus on carbon reduction and energy efficiency, is not just a set of technical requirements. It represents a rethinking of how we interact with our physical spaces, how we consume resources, and how we can coexist harmoniously with the natural world.</p><figure id="figure-w63ihs1nshlqzxhd1i"><img id="w63ihs1nshlqzxhd1i" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2dMJHHodGZUzoZmbmYHvy5NEDnfivZTE7Q9DSD8wK5keKHRMXECkm0yT1aQfxJyp.png" alt="Thermal image of The Shard in London at night, highlighted with bright heat map colors indicating heat loss, surrounded by accurately placed, dark silhouettes of neighboring buildings like Guy's Hospital, One Blackfriars, and the towers of Vauxhall and Nine Elms" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="The Shard and London's Architectural Canvas at Night, Visualized through the Vibrant Spectrum of Thermal Energy Loss." data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="50%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2dMJHHodGZUzoZmbmYHvy5NEDnfivZTE7Q9DSD8wK5keKHRMXECkm0yT1aQfxJyp.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined 50%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">The Shard and London's Architectural Canvas at Night, Visualized through the Vibrant Spectrum of Thermal Energy Loss.</figcaption></figure><p><br></p><h3>From Numbers to Enlightenment</h3><p>Statistics in this context are not just numbers; they are indicators of our journey towards a more conscious existence. Consider the proposed options in the Future Buildings Standard: a 27% reduction in carbon emissions, a transformative goal that goes beyond the 22% achievable through building services alone, and demands a holistic approach to building design <a data-mce-href="https://www.building.co.uk/buildings/explainer-the-proposed-future-buildings-standard-in-detail/5110123.article" href="https://www.building.co.uk/buildings/explainer-the-proposed-future-buildings-standard-in-detail/5110123.article" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>["]</strong></a>. This approach is mirrored in specific measures like the increased efficiency of building services and the introduction of more stringent airtightness calculation methodologies, reducing the minimum requirement from 10m³/m²@50pa to 5m³/m²@50pa <a data-mce-href="https://www.building.co.uk/buildings/explainer-the-proposed-future-buildings-standard-in-detail/5110123.article" href="https://www.building.co.uk/buildings/explainer-the-proposed-future-buildings-standard-in-detail/5110123.article" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>["]</strong></a>.</p><p>But these numbers tell a story beyond compliance and regulation. They speak to a collective commitment to reshape our environment, a commitment that extends to the very fabric of our buildings. The 27% reduction target is not just a number; it's a testament to our evolving understanding of our role as custodians of our planet <a data-mce-href="https://www.building.co.uk/buildings/explainer-the-proposed-future-buildings-standard-in-detail/5110123.article" href="https://www.building.co.uk/buildings/explainer-the-proposed-future-buildings-standard-in-detail/5110123.article" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>["]</strong></a>.</p><h3>The Dawn of an Enlightened Era in Commercial Construction</h3><p>As we step into this new era, the commercial building sector is not just adapting to regulations; it is participating in a philosophical shift towards a more mindful, responsible approach to construction and resource use. This shift is evident in the move towards more accurate predictions of building energy performance, emphasising the need for a deeper understanding of our buildings' operational realities <a data-mce-href="https://www.building.co.uk/buildings/explainer-the-proposed-future-buildings-standard-in-detail/5110123.article" href="https://www.building.co.uk/buildings/explainer-the-proposed-future-buildings-standard-in-detail/5110123.article" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>["]</strong></a>.</p><p>Energy Digest, in this transformative period, stands at the forefront, not just as a participant but as a guide. Specialising in commercial energy compliance and consultancy, we are more than just advisors; we are partners in this journey towards an enlightened approach to building and living. Discover our role in this journey at [<a data-mce-href="https://energydigest.co.uk/services/service-range" href="https://energydigest.co.uk/services/service-range" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Energy Digest Services</a>].</p><p>---</p><p>The Future Homes and Buildings Standards consultation is more than a policy update; it's a philosophical revolution in how we view and construct our commercial spaces. It's a journey towards understanding our buildings not just as structures but as integral parts of our environment and our collective responsibility towards it. </p><p>#energydigest #empoweringprogress #builtenvironment #FutureHomesStandard</p>

Reshaping the Future: The 2023 Consultation and Its Philosophical Implications for Commercial Buildings

<p><em><strong>3-4 Minute Read Time</strong></em></p><h3>Understanding Condensation: The Basics Expanded<br></h3><p>Condensation, a natural process where warm, moist air meets cooler surfaces, resulting in water droplets, is a common issue in homes. This simple process is influenced by numerous factors, such as indoor heating, humidity levels, and even the number of occupants. Everyday activities, like showering or cooking, can significantly elevate indoor humidity, increasing the likelihood of condensation. This moisture, if not adequately managed, can lead to dampness and mould growth, impacting both the building's integrity and the occupants' health.</p><h3>A Brief History: From Drafts to Airtight Living Enhanced<br></h3><p>The evolution of building design from naturally ventilated structures to modern airtight homes marks a significant shift in architectural history. Initially, buildings were designed with natural ventilation in mind, with air flowing through loosely fitted doors and windows, allowing moisture to escape. However, the energy crises of the 1970s prompted a change. The focus shifted towards energy conservation, leading to more airtight buildings. While this reduced energy consumption, it inadvertently created environments where moisture could accumulate, increasing the risk of condensation and the associated problems.</p><h3>The Health Impact: When Air Quality Declines</h3><p>The relationship between indoor air quality and health is a complex yet critical aspect of modern living. The presence of dampness and mould in our homes, a direct consequence of unresolved condensation, significantly impacts health. In England, the number of homes grappling with dampness and mould is startling, ranging from 962,000 to 6.5 million households, or 4% to 27% of all homes (<a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/damp-and-mould-understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-for-rented-housing-providers/understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-of-damp-and-mould-in-the-home--2" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/damp-and-mould-understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-for-rented-housing-providers/understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-of-damp-and-mould-in-the-home--2" rel="noopener">GOV.UK</a>). This isn't just a minor inconvenience; it's a serious health hazard.</p><p>In 2019, dampness and mould were linked to an estimated 5,000 cases of asthma and approximately 8,500 lower respiratory infections in English residences. Furthermore, these conditions contributed to 1 to 2% of new cases of allergic rhinitis in the same year (<a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/damp-and-mould-understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-for-rented-housing-providers/understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-of-damp-and-mould-in-the-home--2" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/damp-and-mould-understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-for-rented-housing-providers/understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-of-damp-and-mould-in-the-home--2" rel="noopener">GOV.UK</a>). These figures are significant, indicating a clear link between the quality of our indoor environments and respiratory health.</p><p>Asthma UK, a leading health charity, underscores the prevalence of this issue. Around 5.4 million people in the UK receive treatment for asthma, a condition often exacerbated by poor indoor air quality (<a href="https://statistics.blf.org.uk/asthma" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://statistics.blf.org.uk/asthma" rel="noopener">British Lung Foundation</a>). This data paints a picture of a widespread health challenge, deeply rooted in the way we build and maintain our homes.</p><p>Considering these statistics, one must ponder: Are we doing enough to ensure that our pursuit of energy efficiency and modern living standards doesn't compromise our health? How can we better balance the need for airtight, energy-efficient homes with the equally crucial need for healthy indoor air?</p><figure id="figure-8v19zu6qtllqx3kspb"><img id="8v19zu6qtllqx3kspb" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/336YEAibfaUrCYNA1h5dUpTE9Rl8L064bZjanLaWrbGZO1Yv5i7JmBUGNtPVAAW7.png" alt="The image shows a realistically depicted modern British office interior. Subtle yet noticeable patches of mold and dampness are visible on the walls, indicating a realistic level of mold growth. The office is equipped with standard items like desks, computers, and chairs. It features a diverse group of office workers, aged between 20 to 50 years, of mixed genders. These individuals appear visibly ill, with some coughing and others showing clear signs of discomfort and fatigue, highlighting the health implications of the mold-infested environment. The image is rendered in a realistic style, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. The overall atmosphere conveys a sense of urgency regarding the health risks associated with mold in indoor settings." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 40% 30%;" data-corners="medium" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Silent Threat: The Unseen Impact of Mold in the Modern Office" data-positionx="40%" data-positiony="30%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/336YEAibfaUrCYNA1h5dUpTE9Rl8L064bZjanLaWrbGZO1Yv5i7JmBUGNtPVAAW7.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 40% 30%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Silent Threat: The Unseen Impact of Mold in the Modern Office</figcaption></figure><p><br></p><h3>Tackling the Issue: Balancing Efficiency and Health-Enhanced</h3><p><br>Addressing the condensation challenge in modern buildings requires a dual focus: maintaining energy efficiency while ensuring good indoor air quality. This can be achieved through intelligent design that incorporates effective ventilation systems, such as mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) units. These systems help maintain a balance by extracting moist air and replacing it with fresh, filtered air from outside. Additionally, the use of moisture-absorbing materials in construction can help regulate indoor humidity, preventing condensation and promoting a healthier living environment.</p><h3>Modern Methods to Mitigate Condensation Risk</h3><p><br>In modern construction, sophisticated methods like the GLASER and WUFI calculations are used to predict and mitigate condensation risks. The GLASER method, a simpler approach, uses basic heat and moisture transfer principles to evaluate condensation potential within building components. On the other hand, WUFI (Wärme und Feuchte instationär), a more advanced tool, offers dynamic simulation, considering various environmental and material factors over time. These tools enable architects and engineers to design buildings that can effectively manage moisture, reducing the risk of condensation-related issues.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p><br>As we continue to enhance our living spaces for better energy efficiency, the importance of managing condensation grows. By understanding its basics, acknowledging the historical shifts in building design, and applying modern mitigation techniques, we can ensure our homes are both energy-efficient and healthy.</p><p>#energydigest #empoweringprogress #builtenvironment #condensationawareness</p>

Tackling Condensation in Residential Buildings: A Journey from Natural Ventilation to Airtight Spaces

<p><em><strong>3-4 Minute Read Time</strong></em></p><h3><strong>A Journey Through Time...</strong></h3><p>Concrete's history is as solid as the structures it builds. Around 6500 BC in the UAE, the Nabataea traders crafted concrete floors and structures. Fast forward to 3000 BC, the Egyptians used mud and straw to bind bricks, and even the Great Pyramids at Giza incorporated about 500,000 tons of mortar. The Ancient Romans, around 600 BC, widely popularised concrete, ingeniously using volcanic ash and lime​​.</p><h3><strong>Lost and Rediscovered</strong></h3><p>After the Roman Empire's fall, concrete's secret recipe was forgotten until 1414 when forgotten manuscripts rekindled interest in this building marvel. Then, in 1824, Joseph Aspdin's invention of Portland cement marked a new era, laying the foundation for modern construction​​. <a data-mce-href="https://www.giatecscientific.com/education/the-history-of-concrete/" href="https://www.giatecscientific.com/education/the-history-of-concrete/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>["]</strong></a></p><figure id="figure-6gkd9y6cwelqvpufun"><img id="6gkd9y6cwelqvpufun" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1bhqFeFgbobhFG0ZJouZYOSQNmKrYgXLuQFJJyOkgPkAC9SF1PNMYagdsCe8R7cm.png" alt="The evolution of concrete through various historical periods. It reflects the timeline from Nabataea traders to the Victorian era, focusing on the creation of concrete in each period with cultural and historical accuracy." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="medium" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="The evolution of concrete through various historical periods" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1bhqFeFgbobhFG0ZJouZYOSQNmKrYgXLuQFJJyOkgPkAC9SF1PNMYagdsCe8R7cm.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">The evolution of concrete through various historical periods</figcaption></figure><p><br></p><h3><strong>Impact and Energy Intensity</strong></h3><p>Concrete, while indispensable, is a double-edged sword. Producing cement, its key ingredient, contributes significantly to CO2 emissions. Demand growth and the higher global clinker-to-cement ratio have increased the emissions intensity since 2015​​. Despite innovations, the CO2 emissions intensity of cement production has remained relatively flat in recent years. The cement industry needs annual CO2 intensity declines of 4% to align with the Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario​​. <a data-mce-href="https://www.iea.org/energy-system/industry/cement" href="https://www.iea.org/energy-system/industry/cement" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>["]</strong></a></p><h3><strong>Innovative Alternatives</strong></h3><p>The concrete industry is adapting to eco-friendly alternatives. Green concrete, for example, uses waste materials and produces less carbon dioxide​​. AshCrete, which uses recycled fly ash, reduces CO2 emissions significantly​​. Blast furnace slag, another byproduct, replaces up to 80% of cement, emitting less heat during hydration​​. Micro silica, known for increasing concrete's strength and durability, is becoming a popular eco-friendly option​​.</p><h3><strong>Recycling and Beyond</strong></h3><p>Recycling in concrete production is gaining momentum. Papercrete, made from recycled waste paper, is emerging as a sustainable alternative​​. Utilising waste concrete material saves landfill space and reduces virgin material use​​. Glass and plastic, due to their recycling potential, are also being used as concrete alternatives​​​​. Pushing the envelope, a British company, Novacem, has developed concrete that can absorb carbon dioxide​​. <a data-mce-href="https://www.specifyconcrete.org/blog/eco-friendly-alternatives-to-traditional-concrete" href="https://www.specifyconcrete.org/blog/eco-friendly-alternatives-to-traditional-concrete" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>["]</strong></a></p><p><strong>In conclusion</strong>, concrete's story is one of constant evolution. From ancient structures to modern skyscrapers, it has shaped our world. Yet, with environmental concerns taking centre stage, the industry is innovating with sustainable alternatives that promise a greener future.</p><p>Stay updated on the latest in sustainable building materials with #energydigest #empoweringprogress #builtenvironment #concreteevolution.</p><h3>Statistics as of 2020 <a data-mce-href="https://gccassociation.org/concretefuture/cement-concrete-around-the-world/" href="https://gccassociation.org/concretefuture/cement-concrete-around-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">["]</a></h3><ul><li>In 2020, the global volume of concrete produced was approximately 14.0 billion cubic meters.</li><li>Residential construction accounted for about 40% of the total concrete production.</li><li>The global cement production in 2020 amounted to 4.2 billion tonnes.</li><li>The market value of the global cement and concrete products sector was estimated at $440 billion in 2020​​.</li></ul>

Concrete: A Story of Evolution and Innovation

<p><em><strong>2 Minute Read Time</strong></em></p><p>The UK is trying hard to reduce its carbon emissions from buildings, but it's not enough yet. The UK Green Building Council says we need to do more to meet our goals. Right now, our efforts are like the pollution from 6.5 million cars. They suggest three big changes: more help from the government to make homes eco-friendly, better rules for new buildings, and laws that make sure our environment is a top priority[1].</p><p>The National Planning Policy Framework, a big plan for how we build things, didn't make the strong changes many hoped for. This was disappointing because many people think we need better plans to help the environment and fight climate change[2].</p><p>The RICS Sustainability Report tells us what professionals think about eco-friendly buildings. They say there's a growing interest in buildings that are good for the climate. But, the cost of making these changes is a big hurdle. Buildings play a big role in carbon emissions, so it's important to make them more eco-friendly[3].</p><p>The UK government has some plans to make buildings better for the environment. They want new homes and buildings to be ready for a future without carbon emissions. This means they wouldn't need any more work to stop emitting carbon once the electricity grid is fully eco-friendly. They're also thinking about how to make buildings that are changed into homes better. And they're supporting cleaner heating systems for buildings[4].</p><p>It's clear that the UK is trying to build a more sustainable future, but there are still challenges ahead. We need to act fast and make big changes to meet our environmental goals.</p><p><strong>For more details, you can check out these sources:</strong></p><p><strong>[1] UKGBC's Warning on Net Zero Progress</strong>: The UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) has raised concerns that the construction sector is significantly off track in meeting net-zero targets. The detailed report can be accessed at Construction Management's website: <a href="https://constructionmanagement.co.uk/construction-significantly-off-track-on-net-zero-targets-report-warns/" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://constructionmanagement.co.uk/construction-significantly-off-track-on-net-zero-targets-report-warns/" rel="noopener">UKGBC warns construction ‘significantly off track’ on net-zero targets</a>​​.</p><p><strong>[2] Critique of NPPF Update</strong>: A critique of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) update in England, focusing on its impact on housing delivery, is available on Pinsent Masons' website. The update has been criticized for not likely delivering a material increase in new housing: <a target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.pinsentmasons.com/out-law/news/nppf-planning-policy-reforms-housing-delivery-questioned" href="https://www.pinsentmasons.com/out-law/news/nppf-planning-policy-reforms-housing-delivery-questioned" rel="noopener">NPPF: impact of planning policy reforms on housing delivery questioned</a>​​.</p><p><strong>[3] RICS Sustainability Report 2023</strong>: The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) publishes an annual Sustainability Report. The 2023 edition represents the sentiment of around 4,600 real estate and construction professionals from over 30 countries, providing a global benchmark for climate, carbon, and sustainability practices. The report can be found on RICS's website: <a target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.rics.org/news-insights/rics-sustainability-report-2023" href="https://www.rics.org/news-insights/rics-sustainability-report-2023" rel="noopener">RICS Sustainability Report 2023</a>​​.</p><p><strong>[4] The Future Homes and Buildings Standards Consultation</strong>: This consultation by the UK government focuses on changes to Part 6, Part L, and Part F of the Building Regulations for dwellings and non-domestic buildings. It seeks evidence on Part O and aims to improve the energy efficiency and carbon emissions of new homes and buildings. More details about this consultation are available on the UK government's official website: <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/the-future-homes-and-buildings-standards-2023-consultation" target="_blank" data-mce-href="https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/the-future-homes-and-buildings-standards-2023-consultation" rel="noopener">The Future Homes and Buildings Standards: 2023 consultation</a>​​.</p><figure id="figure-is81qxl3mlqpreobd"><img id="is81qxl3mlqpreobd" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/17CGmL3A2QUvQ50VzzWHfYVvDZnGcX0htSTG7euYCJ0EqKPS99nQsIJHm6rh7Vpk.png" alt="A progressive Depiction of London [Year 3000] with greenery growing around and on the houses of parliment" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined 45%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="A progressive Depiction of London [Year 3000]" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="45%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/17CGmL3A2QUvQ50VzzWHfYVvDZnGcX0htSTG7euYCJ0EqKPS99nQsIJHm6rh7Vpk.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined 45%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">A progressive Depiction of London [Year 3000]</figcaption></figure><p><br></p>

UK's Eco-Building Challenge: Progress and Pathways Forward

<p><strong><em>1 Minute 30 Read Time</em></strong></p><h3>More Updates for Built Environment Professionals...</h3><p>The newly released <a data-mce-href="https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/home-energy-model-future-homes-standard-assessment" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/home-energy-model-future-homes-standard-assessment" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Home Energy Model</strong></a> Consultation by the British Government is a significant move towards improving the energy efficiency of homes across the United Kingdom. The Home Energy Model (HEM) will replace the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) for the energy rating of homes, a process that is crucial to the delivery of the government's housing and climate change objectives.</p><h3>Some Key Points</h3><ul class="Ask_listContainer__WeVgO"><li><strong class="Ask_emitSuggestion__xZMEP">Scope</strong><strong>:</strong> The HEM will apply to domestic buildings, including both new builds and existing homes undergoing significant renovation.</li><li><strong class="Ask_emitSuggestion__xZMEP">Implementation</strong><strong>:</strong> The HEM will replace the SAP system, with its implementation scheduled for 2025.</li><li><strong class="Ask_emitSuggestion__xZMEP">Industry Participation</strong><strong>:</strong> The consultation is inviting industry participation to ensure the model accurately reflects the performance of homes. The consultation ends at <strong class="consultation-date"><time datetime="2024-03-06T23:59:00.000+00:00">11:59 pm on 6 March 2024.</time></strong></li><li><strong class="Ask_emitSuggestion__xZMEP">Objections and Concerns</strong><strong>:</strong> The government is open to objections and concerns about the HEM, and encourages stakeholders to engage in the consultation process.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>The reason for a change in software in the words of the government is to 'make a new methodology which is fit for a net zero future'. </p><p>In June 2019, with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2019/1056/contents/made" data-mce-href="https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2019/1056/contents/made" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the <span style="text-decoration: underline;" data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;">Climate Change Act 2008 (2050 Target Amendment) Order 2019</span></a>, the Government committed to a 100% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 compared with 1990 levels. This is referred to as the&nbsp;net&nbsp;zero&nbsp;target.&nbsp;</p><p>To make the Home Energy Model fit for net zero, changes are needed not just to the methodology, but to the surrounding ecosystem. The Home Energy Model incorporates several structural changes to enable a more open, evidence-based methodology, and increase its potential applications.</p><h3>Some of the main changes</h3><ul><li>An open-source methodology.</li><li>Changes to the delivery model and provision of software.</li><li>A revised database of product characteristics.</li><li>Recognising new technologies in the Home Energy Model.</li><li>Using “wrappers” to distinguish different use cases.</li></ul><h3>The Codebase</h3><p>To receive feedback on the eagerly awaited new 'hopefully' approved software, the Government has released the codebase for the calculation engine to allow built environment professionals and enthusiasts to scope out their soon-to-be-new approved software, link below to the codebase:</p><p><strong><a data-mce-href="https://dev.azure.com/BreGroup/_git/Home%20Energy%20Model" href="https://dev.azure.com/BreGroup/_git/Home%20Energy%20Model" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Codebase for Home Energy Model Software</a></strong></p><p>For further information on anything relating to the Home Energy Model, please feel free to reach out by booking a meeting with one of our energy professionals <a data-mce-href="https://usemotion.com/meet/josh-cunningham/energydigest" href="https://usemotion.com/meet/josh-cunningham/energydigest" title="Energy Digest Booking Page" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a></p>

Home Energy Model: An Update for Built Environment Professionals

<p><strong><em>3 Minute Read Time</em></strong></p><h3>Understanding Anthropogenic Activities</h3><p>Anthropogenic activities, derived from the Greek words 'anthropo' meaning 'human' and 'genic' meaning 'origin', refer to the changes in the natural environment caused directly or indirectly by human beings. These activities have been significantly altering the Earth's atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and geosphere for many centuries. While some of these changes are beneficial, many have led to harmful effects such as climate change, pollution, and loss of biodiversity.</p><figure id="figure-jygujpfeqslnbjzg63"><img id="jygujpfeqslnbjzg63" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1eoscVLe09jRdFPkQQllRnV5XHaSRBLdTc8kUMAsms4aEcChtf3udI6Hoxub0Zbn.jpg" alt="The Apex Regional Landfill in Las vegas" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="The Apex Reigonal Landfill in Las vegas (Approx 2,200 acres)" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="50%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1eoscVLe09jRdFPkQQllRnV5XHaSRBLdTc8kUMAsms4aEcChtf3udI6Hoxub0Zbn.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center 50%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">The Apex Reigonal Landfill in Las vegas (Approx 2,200 acres)</figcaption></figure><h3>Types of Anthropogenic Activities</h3><p>Anthropogenic activities can be categorized into different types based on their impact on the environment. These include:</p><ol><li><strong>Industrial Activities:</strong> These refer to the processes involved in the production of goods and services, which often lead to the emission of harmful substances into the environment.</li><li><strong>Agricultural Activities:</strong> These involve the use of land and water resources for farming and livestock rearing, often resulting in soil erosion, deforestation, and water pollution.</li><li><strong>Urbanization:</strong> This refers to the development of urban areas at the expense of natural habitats, leading to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity.</li></ol><h3>Impact of Anthropogenic Activities</h3><p>Anthropogenic activities have far-reaching impacts on the environment. The most significant of these is <strong>climate change</strong>, caused primarily by the release of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun, leading to a rise in the Earth's average temperature, a phenomenon known as global warming.</p><figure id="figure-zj50mygs1lnbjznz4"><img id="zj50mygs1lnbjznz4" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38AFe2vB7kKXvB6d0tYMNWpeZ5zSKgJKVUxUVUnCA3cF6TWSJgSgR0sehwKsIeDD.jpg" alt="Berkut oil rig" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="The Berkut oil rig: The largest oil platform in the world" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38AFe2vB7kKXvB6d0tYMNWpeZ5zSKgJKVUxUVUnCA3cF6TWSJgSgR0sehwKsIeDD.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">The Berkut oil rig: The largest oil platform in the world</figcaption></figure><h3>Other Consequences</h3><p>Other consequences of anthropogenic activities include <strong>air pollution</strong>, which can cause respiratory diseases and other health problems in humans and animals; <strong>water pollution</strong>, which impacts aquatic life and contaminates drinking water sources; and <strong>soil erosion</strong>, which degrades land and reduces its productivity. Additionally, the loss of biodiversity due to habitat destruction and overexploitation of resources threatens the survival of many species.</p><h3>Addressing the Issue</h3><p>To mitigate the negative effects of anthropogenic activities, it is essential to promote sustainable practices. These include the use of renewable energy sources, efficient waste management, sustainable farming practices, and urban planning that prioritizes green spaces. Education and awareness about the impacts of our actions on the environment are also crucial in encouraging responsible behavior.</p><figure id="figure-22utt7zkaclnbjzt2q"><img id="22utt7zkaclnbjzt2q" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1690310456424-5e37b185464d?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxOXx8c3VzdGFpbmFibGUlMjBwcmFjdGljZXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjk2MzM3OTg3fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="sustainable practices" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1690310456424-5e37b185464d?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxOXx8c3VzdGFpbmFibGUlMjBwcmFjdGljZXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjk2MzM3OTg3fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>In conclusion, while anthropogenic activities have contributed to significant advancements in human society, they have also led to numerous environmental challenges. By understanding these activities and their impacts, we can make informed decisions and take steps towards a more sustainable future.</p>

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