Material concerns for homes code

While welcoming the principles of the new Code for Sustainable Homes, the Construction Products Association has expressed disappointment that it does not provide greater recognition for sustainable building materials.

The association is concerned that the 'star rating' associated with the voluntary code provides too little incentive to specify sustainable products. With points earned for proof of certain efficiencies, the association's chief executive, Michael Ankers, has expressed unease that there is the potential to build an energy and water-efficient dwelling using materials with high environmental impact.

He believes that when the code is reviewed it should take account of the emerging European Standards and place greater priority on material targets, further encouraging manufacturers to improve the sustainability of their products.