media centre: press releases 
United approach needed to combat climate change time bomb 19/04/2007 A report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has now catagorically laid blame for the worsening effects of global warming at the door of mankind. And with allegations of 200million tonnes of undeclared greenhouse gases being produced in the UK and just 10 years to reverse the effects on the environment, the clock is ticking on the solution to the greatest environmental challenge of the modern era. However, one area that appears at the heart of a solution to the problem is the UK's planning system and, according to one leading planning lawyer, there have been moves in the right direction to facilitate reduction in carbon emissions across many sectors. "The planning system is now seen as being integral to tackling climate change as it affects all aspects of our lives, from transport and employment to education to housing. "It also changes the way in which we control the physical environment and may begin to influence individual choice and behaviour," commented Lynne Franklin, head of the planning and environment team at Birmingham and London law firm Martineau Johnson. Speaking after a joint conference hosted with the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), Lynne echoed the views of delegates when emphasising that a consistent approach across all sectors is important to maximise the impact which planning can make. "Hopefully," she continued, "the proposed Planning Policy Statement on climate change, and the Code for Sustainable Homes, will lead to a level playing field for developers wherever they are in the country." Since the government's first energy review in 2003, climate change issues have been integral to the planning system and these two important pieces of legislation, currently in their consultation period, look to amend the policy framework. "A homogenous approach across all sectors is important to maximise the positive effect it can have," Lynne added. "Proposed developments have to be reviewed with both the sustainability of the building and its location in mind. This means that energy-efficient designs and the use of renewable energy sources must be promoted, together with a reduction in the need for transport, reduced consumption of greenfield land and the protection of the environment. "However, until now, there has not been sufficient integrated legislation or suitable resources for Local Planning Authorities to address these issues, nor a unified way for a cross-disciplinary approach to planning." Birmingham itself has a climate change commitment to achieve a 20% carbon reduction on 1990 levels by 2010, including a 30% reduction from housing. And Keith Budden, head of sustainability at Birmingham Strategic Partnership, pointed out that Birmingham is in fact leading the way with its carbon reduction responsibilities: "A recent survey amongst Birmingham's communities revealed a significant increase in public awareness of this subject, with the majority of people now regarding climate change as a greater risk than terrorism. "Over 90% of people called for tougher building standards and 85% wanted improved public transport and, in keeping with these findings, Birmingham is the first core city to develop a climate change strategy with a declaration to bridge the gap between good intentions and reality." The housing industry is also facing strict changes of its own to work towards carbon zero development. "Climate change is now an important factor in determining location for housing on a regional and local level and looks set to extend to influencing the methods and technology used in the construction of new homes as well," commented John Acres, Chairman of the Royal Town Planning Institute West Midlands Region. "Finally it looks as if such policies will become mandatory, enforcing a necessary standardisation across the country where previously only varying voluntary codes had existed." "A more dramatic picture of climate change has been painted in recent weeks than ever before and I think that planning policies have started to respond in the nick of time," added Ms Franklin. "The issue does require both an emotional and technical response and it is important that individuals and businesses live up to their intentions and responsibilities but also that the Government enforces a standardised approach where possible to unite UK industry in tackling the problem for maximum effect." For further information please contact
Clive Read
on
clive.read@martineau-uk.com |
