At SCS we are constantly trying to keep abreast of the latest developments in Net Zero and Embodied Carbon. As a result, we feel it is important that we all learn from what other countries are doing well.
In the Netherlands, they use a similar system of reviewing carbon emissions in construction, using the same A-D method (A=Upfront, B= Operation, C=End of Life, D=Beyond Life, based on the same EN standard, EN 14044)
However, unlike the UK where the need for reporting depending on local planning rules, we understand their standards are nationwide and clear. Anything new non-domestic over 100m2 , and all domestic, needs to be reviewed and a target achieved.
They are also ahead of the UK, with their nation-wide standard for refurbishment further along in its development.
They use a slightly different metric to ours, an MPG (Environmental Performance of Buildings) calculation. The MPG standards are not without problems in the Netherlands. The materials database is limited, and this is not well populated, nor updated often. Therefore, like SBEM calculations in the UK, they are not without their limitations, but the key is that the standard is universal and regulated.
However it is required when applying for a environmental building permit and provides insight into the environmental performance of a building at the material level. This score shows whether the building meets the environmental requirements of the building code.
Therefore, this standard has teeth. If you don’t achieve it, you can’t occupy your building.
As a result of this clear understanding of the rules and boundaries, the Netherlands construction industry is already outstripping the UK in its response to embodied carbon. Clear boundaries allow supply chains to gear up for its delivery.
There is some fantastic work being done in the UK, but while the UK tries to get its ducks in a row, the Netherlands is no longer in the “innovation / exemplar” stage. It’s gone beyond that and is now simple cracking on with delivering on the ground on every new building over 100m2 and all residential.
This change in the Dutch industry has happened quickly. Therefore, rather than looking at the negatives, the UK should take inspiration from the Netherlands. Once our standards are finally formalised, we should have confidence that our industry has the skills, knowledge and muscle to adapt to any new targets set at Government level.
My thanks to Tom Blight Tom Blight at SimStream and Anita van der Brugge at Circle Line for all their guidance and knowledge on this subject.
