Sustainability
Tower Power: Architects turn skyscrapers into batteries
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill has partnered with Energy Vault Holdings to 'explore how the architecture of renewable energy can enhance our shared natural landscapes and urban environments.'
Watchdog flags ‘risks’ in new Biodiversity Net Gain rules
The 'novel and complex' government scheme to promote nature within property developments was launched 'without having all elements in place to ensure its long-term success', warns the National Audit Office.
Consumer body Which? calls for substantial EPC reform
'Too many EPCs do not provide an accurate assessment of the energy efficiency of a home.'
How off-grid living has shifted from hippie to chic
'Off-grid' is no longer the preserve of the tree huggers, says Dorcas George-Jones of Castellum.
‘World first’ digital tool aims to help small developers with new biodiversity net gain laws
As new BNG rules kick in, proptech start-up Joe’s Blooms has launched a new product for SME property developers, backed by Planning Portal.
New York, Tokyo & London named world’s ‘most resilient’ cities in 2024
Savills' annual research points to 'an inflection' for global cities in 2024 'as funding environments improve and real estate investment volumes start to recover.'
RICS launches ‘pioneering’ best practice standards for residential retrofits
Fresh guidance aims to 'revolutionise retrofitting practices across the UK.'
Westminster floats ‘retrofit first’ planning strategy
'We will not reach net zero without a significant shift in how we view development,' says Westminster Council's Geoff Barraclough.
Home tech firm Wondrwall secures massive investment; installs new chair
'Wondrwall is reinventing home energy efficiency,' declares new Chair David Buzby.
Green light for ‘UK’s most sustainable neighbourhood’
'Visionary' project in East Sussex is being masterminded by two former Greenpeace directors.
Developers in England will be forced to create habitats for wildlife – here’s how it works
Academics from Oxford University explore the purpose and practicalities of the government's latest environmental policy - which will have a major impact on property developments.
Biodiversity Net Gain: What property developers & landowners need to know
'Quantifiable biodiversity net gain targets at 10% provide helpful clarity for developers to demonstrate the biodiversity benefits of schemes transparently,' says Knight Frank of new rules affecting housebuilders.