Innovative partnerships can build zero carbon ...

19 March 2009, 2:58pm

Innovative partnerships can build zero carbon future

The economic situation could create new opportunities to promote a low carbon economy and fight fuel poverty within local communities according to Northgate Public Services in a response published today.

In answer to the government’s consultation on the Definition of zero carbon homes and

non-domestic buildings issued by Communities and Local Government (CLG), Northgate argues that new forms of collaboration between the public, private and not-for-profit sectors are vital to reaching the government’s ambitious targets.

The report welcomes the principles and approach but highlights the need to tackle some of the barriers to change through:

· the development of new financial models to promote collaborative working

· aligning strategies and policies to simplify implementation

· promoting the leading role of local authorities and the social housing sector in place- shaping and promoting energy efficient buildings

· providing open competition in developing sustainable tool models

Russell Osborne, Managing Director of Citizen Solutions for Northgate Public Services, said today:

“We wholeheartedly support the government’s ambitions and its overall approach in promoting zero carbon buildings. It is critical that the battle against fuel poverty is integral to building a zero carbon future and that we seize the opportunity to build a dynamic and flourishing energy efficiency market which will provide jobs and a sustainable future for our local communities.

“To achieve this we need to develop innovative partnerships. These should involve energy companies, developers, local authorities and the social housing sector, supported by the voluntary and private sectors. They should be focused on the twin goals of reducing inequality and promoting community well-being, whilst tackling climate change through promoting energy efficiency in our homes, our public buildings and our commercial buildings.”

For more information
Kathy Sutton 020 7395 1516; 07966 890401
Konstantinos Makrygiannis 020 7395 1518; 07949 421356

GeoConnexion UK