Coventry trade body supports global green initiative
A Coventry trade body is supporting a global initiative, calling for a new approach to sustainability in the built environment.
The Builders Merchants Federation is a signatory to the Our Shared Understanding: a circular economy in the built environment, published today (Thursday 1 June), which unites the industry in working towards a sustainable future, living within Earth’s capacity to provide resources and handle waste.
John Newcomb, the CEO of the BMF, is one of over 100 industry leaders from across the globe to contribute to the programme, which sets out why all sectors and disciplines must work together to enable a circular economy in the built environment.
He said: “The circular economy focuses on a ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ process, and Our Shared Understanding is a recognition that a common goal and coordinated action is needed to stop exceeding the limits of our finite planet.
“To support that process, Our Shared Understanding brings together the best thinking from both the circular economy and built environment communities to identify the core concepts that will guide the transition to a circular economy.
“It calls for collective action to put circular principles at the heart of how we design, manage, build and use our existing buildings and infrastructure.
“This will have a significant impact on addressing our global systemic challenges, such as achieving net zero emissions, providing climate resilience, protecting biodiversity, and enabling social equity.”
The move to support Our Shared Understanding is the latest initiative from the BMF to champion sustainability.
Other initiatives include a specialist forum, featuring BMF members who are dedicated to sharing information, support and clear best practice on working towards zero carbon targets.
The trade association has also led calls for a National Retro-fit Strategy, which would support the installation of energy-efficient technology into existing dwellings, to decarbonise properties as a key element of a Net Zero economy.
