Formerly a buzz word, increasing knowledge and regulatory considerations mean that 'sustainability' has become part of construction industry vernacular and is now informing best practice across the breadth of the construction supply chain. Why? Because domestic and commercial buildings combined are accountable for 45 per cent of the UK's global-warming gases. If we are to meet the government's ambitious targets to reduce CO_2 emissions by 80 per cent by 2020 the UK construction industry has undoubtedly a large role to play in creating a low carbon future. However, when you factor into the equation the current economic downturn, which has given rise to some of the most difficult trading conditions in the past 25 years, as a concept 'going green' is in danger of being side-lined in the name of cost cutting. Yet, environmental threats are not going to diminish, and the truth remains that ultimately the economy will recover. Therefore, for those companies in a position to weather the current storm, embracing sustainability can in fact drive down their operational costs, open them up to new markets and enhance company reputations, not to mention the benefits for the end user and the environment.
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