Back     Latest news from Green Building Press    Subscribe to our newsletter

Product manufacture needs responsible sourcing

Posted: 29/02/2008

Construction product manufacturers have come together to push forward the development of a framework standard on responsible sourcing, at a pivotal meeting hosted by the Construction Products Association.

Jane Thornback, Environmental Policy Advisor at the Association said: “Clients, contractors and designers are all now demanding information on the sourcing of the products used in buildings. As such it is imperative for industry that there is a publically available independent standard against which products can be certified. Whilst the general interest from contractors in responsible sourcing should be welcomed, manufacturers need clear harmonisation rather than a plethora of schemes. The Association hosted the meeting in an attempt to make progress towards this common goal.”

Construction product manufacturers are keen to see the development of a responsible sourcing framework standard which would enable tailor made schemes to be developed for each sector. This would give manufacturers credibility in the market place by showing that their products are responsibly sourced. Currently the timber industry is the only sector to benefit from such schemes. As such other sectors are excluded from gaining credits in the Code for Sustainable Homes, BREEAM and the Olympic sustainability requirements.

The meeting heard views from the steel and cement sectors, which are in the early stages of considering a scheme. Those present agreed that an independent standard must be developed which could be certified by multiple bodies. The Association will now be working with BSI, in collaboration with BRE, to develop a framework for responsible sourcing schemes.

Green Building Press  
 

Back     Latest news from Green Building Press    Subscribe to our newsletter

2357