Housebuilders failing to keep up with sustainable construction developments

Some housebuilders are still finding it difficult to keep pace with developments in sustainable construction, according to a World Wildlife Fund (WWF) report published this week.

Westbury and Redrow lag behind in the top 12 housebuilders, despite great improvements from Crest Nicholson and George Wimpey.

The WWF commissioned the report as part of its One Million Sustainable Homes campaign. The report looks at 12 UK housebuilders quoted on the FTSE All Share, which account for 41% of housing completed in 2004.

The firms were judged on sustainability issues, how well they manage their impacts on the environment and their impacts on society.

The clear leaders were Crest, Berkeley Group and Wimpey, which all scored over 80%.

The WWF said the industry still needs financial incentives and tougher regulations to improve its performance.