Sustainability standards needed to stop confusion

The accurate identification of sustainable products and their correct use continues to be a problem for the industry, according to a leading builder's merchant.

Nigel Sibley, managing director of Wolseley UK, has told CJ that manufacturers' claims regarding sustainability should be treated with caution, particularly as there are no standards to judge them by.

"It is a symptom of the fact that there aren't clearly established standards, accreditations or measurements," Sibley explained.

"While this debate goes on there is room for people to make quite legitimate claims. The problem is that manufacturers are choosing the measure by which they are evaluating themselves."

Sibley said this is causing confusion among merchants and end users as such a variety of opposing products and methods are being positioned as sustainable.

"I think the sooner the government or industry can bring into alignment what the key measures of sustainability are the better," he continued. "You start worrying that people will be making decisions that in time may not be seen as being valid."

Wolseley wants to be seen as an unbiased advisor and is developing a number of initiatives to aid in the identification of sustainable products. It is due to open a sustainability centre, which will be designed to showcase environmental products and materials, and is considering becoming involved in the training of their installation.

Sibley added: "Even if you get sustainable products on site there is a chance that incorrect use may compromise their environmental credentials. There is the issue of training that someone needs to fulfil. I think that's an area where the merchant can add some value.

"The manufacturers and suppliers all have a vested interest, quite understandably, but someone in the middle is able to provide advice. We have the relationship with the suppliers, we have the relationship with the customers and we're handling the product. It is then about trying to help people with their design, which we have already done with some customers."