EcoHomes and Ecology
EcoHomes is a scheme set up by the Building Research Establishment and sponsored by NHBC to assess the environmental performance of homes and assesses new and renovated homes on a scale of Pass, Good, Very Good and Excellent.
The idea is to improve environmental performance through good design and effective use of the site such as in relation to energy and water efficiency, reduced maintenance, healthy and flexible environments, access to local amenities and encourages developers to keep ahead of regulation. The scheme is particularly being taken up by Housing Associations; which are encouraged to achieve at least a 'good' rating.
Ecology is one of seven themes used to assess and rate building developments and is part of the third stage of assessment of particular sites (as opposed to individual building design). Sites are scored (and credits given) for the extent to which the building land:
- is of low ecological value
and also the extent to which the development:- enhances the ecological value of the site;
- protects existing features;
- improves the number of species on the site;
- makes effective use of the building footprint.
Overall a development is rated on its overall score and ecological issues can achieve 15% of the total score. Ecology becomes particularly important where a developer wishes to achieve a very good or excellent rating.
|
