BSEE-NOV21-PG04_Layout 1 25/10/2021 15:27 Page 4
BSEE
Scientists upgrade an old practice to offer new low carbon building material
lymouth University is piloting the use of an ancient building material called cob to construct a new generation of energy- efficient buildings.
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They have started building a single storey 32-square-metre laboratory and classroom next to the university's sustainability hub out of the material which is a mix of soil, water, straw and hemp.
Principal investigator and professor of environmental building at the art, design and architecture school Steve Goodhew said: "We will create a living lab and demonstration site that will become the centre of attention for a wide range of people – from construction professionals to built environment students."
Contractor Chris Noakes and the university's estates team are expected to complete the building in eight months. Researchers will monitor the performance of the new walling material using sensors to measure energy use, its life cycle and indoor air quality. The results will be shared with future building designers, contractors and interested stakeholders.
The University's Sustainable Earth Institute director Professor Will Blake said: "Students and visitors to the site will be able to engage with this potentially industry- influencing ongoing research project." Interreg V France (Channel) England and the European Regional Development Fund have invested more than £3.5m in the second phase of the CobBauge project where a full-sized building will also be constructed in France.
The first phase developed a new method of using cob that reduced the need for heating and mitigated overheating during warmer weather. Researchers studied a range of different soil and fibre mixes creating a double-layered composite wall combining a denser mix with a lighter weight version for strength and insulation.
Low carbon London projects more likely to get the ‘green light'
he capital's mayor Sadiq Khan has released new guidance for developers to ensure new buildings are greener prioritising space for walkers, cyclists and public transport users. The guidance is part of Mr Khan's plans to make London a zero-carbon city within the next 10 years and offers practical advice on how to do it.
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He said: "I'm committed to delivering a brighter future for London – one that's greener, fairer and more prosperous for everyone."
Mr Khan said it was vital London adapted to the impacts of a changing climate, including the increased risk of flooding and overheating.
The guidance requires developers to monitor and report the operational energy performance of major developments for at least five years post-construction. The mayor sees this as a critical step in moving to Net Zero carbon buildings.
They must also calculate their urban greening score with initiatives such as green roofs, rain gardens and flower-rich
gardens gaining higher points for being a big benefit for the natural environment.
The guidance also offers advice for London councils in setting their targets which are particularly aimed at boroughs deficient of green spaces and features.
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NEWS & QUOTES Quote, unquote
Mark Bouldin, clean air expert, Johnson Controls UK&I, had the following to say regarding news that carbon emissions from rich countries rose rapidly in 2021… “The year 2021 has been critical for climate action so the news that carbon emissions increased from rich countries is disheartening to hear to say the least. However, we cannot let this stop us from moving forwards. With COP26 around the corner, now is our chance to work collectively and set the standard for others to follow.
“Thankfully, technologies already exist that can help us get to grips with many of the issues at hand. 40% of the world’s carbon is generated by buildings so we must look to innovation to put us solidly on the pathway to Net Zero. Smart technologies are no longer a gimmick or a flash in the pan initiative and must instead be recognised as a significant vehicle to make a positive impact and advance our sustainability efforts.
“But what governments and businesses don’t realise is that improving energy efficiency has more than just a good effect on the planet. Research has found that, in buildings with clean air technology, productivity can increase by 11%, with cognitive scores increasing by 101%. That’s a business gain that can only be achieved by exceeding current regulations.
“When it comes to tackling climate change, we don’t have the luxury of time. Technology is the place to start, sooner rather than later.”
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Oliver Baker, CEO at Ambion Heating commented as follows on the news that the Government is planning to shift green policy charges from electricity to gas… "The news that the Government is set to unveil plans to move green surcharges from electricity to gas is not only long overdue, it is a game changer. “We have argued for some time that, if we’re going to hit Net Zero and solve the UK’s heating challenge, electric systems are the only way to go. However, high unit costs have limited its potential, so any measures to drive down this cost and accelerate the move away from polluting fossil fuels and towards a sustainable low-carbon future are hugely welcome. “That said, for electric systems to fulfil their promise they also need to be super efficient to avoid pushing more residents into fuel poverty. And, while heat pumps tick this box, they are not the right solution for all properties. To be truly effective, a wide range of technologies will need to be considered to fulfil the low-carbon ambition.”
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4 BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER NOVEMBER 2021
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