The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
has today submitted its comments on the draft Climate Change Bill, which was
published today by the Government.
A RIBA spokesperson said:
"The RIBA welcomes the publication of the draft Climate Change Bill. It
shows that the Government is determined to produce a long-term, statutory, domestic
framework for tackling climate change.
"Given that the built environment is responsible for around 50% of carbon
emissions in the UK, it is clear that architects have a significant role to
play in designing away from climate change. The Government has given us a lead
by proposing that all new homes should be zero carbon by 2016 and Gordon Brown
spoke yesterday of extending that ambition to all homes. The RIBA is doing its
bit by providing architects with the tools they need to deliver on the Government's
targets and the increasingly energy-conscious demands of clients; raising public
awareness through a 'green' Architecture Week in June; and delivering an extensive
programme of exhibitions and talks on climate change.
"We will be participating fully in the Government's consultation and hope
to see a robust Climate Change Bill in the Queen's Speech later this year."