Latest Eco-Buildings news

Local communities will get their next chance to have their say on the eco-town proposals as Housing Minister Margaret Beckett today launches the Government's second round of formal consultation on the proposed locations and standards for eco-towns.

Forty nine projects in England supported by the Community Energy Efficiency Fund (CEEF) are expected to exceed their targets by 100 percent, Climate Change Minister Joan Ruddock announced today.

The Barratt Green House – the first home by a mainstream housebuilder which is so environmentally friendly that it meets the criteria for zero stamp duty – was officially opened today by the Minister for Housing, the Rt Hon Caroline Flint MP.

A new website is being launched today where you can download plans for an environmentally friendly house for free.

The country's first eco-towns took a step closer to becoming reality today as Housing Minister Caroline Flint today announced 15 potential locations will go forward to the next stage, providing the opportunity for a major boost in affordable housing across the country whilst tackling climate change.

Tesco Ireland today announced that the company will be opening its first environmental store ("eco store") in Tramore this October. When completed the 30,000 sq ft retail outlet will use 45% less energy than a supermarket of a similar size. Setting a new benchmark for green technology and construction in retail in Ireland, Tesco Tramore will save 420 tonnes of CO2, a 30% annual saving.

A trailblazing initiative to create the UK's first zero-carbon sustainable suburb was launched in southwest London on Monday.

The Government's drive towards zero carbon housing took a step forward this week with the announcement that all new homes are to be rated on their green credentials from May 1st.

Barratt Developments has published its preliminary findings from its pioneering 'eco village' project in Chorley, Lancashire – a 15 month experiment into how effectively 'green' technologies can be incorporated into new homes.

The Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone has launched the UK's first 'green homes' service to help Londoners cut climate change emissions by offering an easy, one-stop-shop for information on how to make homes more carbon efficient.

To mark National Empty Homes Week of Action 3rd-7th December independent charity The Empty Homes Agency is appealing to the public to report long-term empty homes to them to help bring them back into use.