The Prime Minister’s announcement that the UK Government will set a target of cutting carbon emissions by 78% by 2035 is welcome news in tackling climate change, but the Government must lead a campaign to green our homes to make this possible, said the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “The Prime Minister’s target to cut carbon emissions by 78% by 2035 will help accelerate the UK’s transition to a low carbon economy, but the building industry needs a National Retrofit Strategy to have the confidence it needs to invest in greening our homes. Our homes use 35% of the UK's total energy usage and emit 20% of carbon dioxide emissions. Net Zero will only be possible with a long-term plan to green our homes.”
Berry concluded: “With the Green Homes Grant Scheme stopped prematurely in its tracks, it is essential that the forthcoming Heat and Building Strategy be ambitious, long-term and comprehensive in its plan to upgrade our housing stock. This will help position the UK as a global leader in tackling climate change ahead of COP26.”
Notes to editors
The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is the largest trade association in the UK construction industry representing thousands of firms in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Established in 1941 to protect the interests of small and medium-sized (SME) construction firms, the FMB is independent and non-profit making, lobbying for members’ interests at both the national and local level.
The FMB is a source of knowledge, professional advice and support for its members, providing a range of modern and relevant business building services to help them succeed. The FMB is committed to raising quality in the construction industry and offers a free Find a Builder service to consumers.
