430  Green building and decorating

Green building is the practice of :
1   increasing the efficiency with which buildings and their sites use and harvest energy, water, and materials, and
2   reducing building impacts on human health and the environment, through better siting, design, construction, operation, maintenance, and removal — the complete building life cycle. 

In addition to sustainability, another common goal of green building is aesthetic harmony between a structure and the surrounding natural area.  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_buildings

The environmental performance of buildings can be measured and rated.  Several environmental assessments rate performance of new or existing buildings.  Examples include BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) in the UK or LEED (Leadership In Energy and Environmental Design) in USA. 

Global warming has been cited (eg by UK PM Tony Blair) as the most important challenge of our time.  CO2 levels have now reached a critical 381 parts per million (BBC News 13 March 2006).  New and existing buildings, and the domestic technology they contain, must reduce drastically their CO2 emissions using energy conservation measures and renewable energy technologies. 

Construction represents about 10 per cent of UKGDP, and 20 per cent of GDP growth (Martin Wyatt, CEO, Building Research Establishment, 2004).  In value, it represents slightly more consumer expenditure than either food or transport.  It also generates a disproportionate amount of waste - about 70 million tonnes a year - most of which is landfilled.  To reduce this impact, The WasteBook aims to inspire greater reuse of construction waste, to reduce resource use and increase energy and cost savings. 

Buildings have many impacts on the environment, and therefore on ecological systems.  These range from energy and water consumption (and their consequences) to the use of natural resources.  Many of these impacts are interactive and should be considered not just individually, but also in the context of the building as a whole throughout its life.  The EcoHomes rating - see below - is based on this reality. 

In order to improve environmental performance, life cycle impacts should be considered.  These include the extraction and production of building materials; construction of the building; use, maintenance; future refurbishment or extension; and eventually demolition of the building and its contents, reusing as many materials as possible.

BREEAM is a method of assessing the environmental impact of a building that has been developed by BRE with support from government and the private sector.  It currently covers five building types and provides a voluntary and independent method for assessing the overall impact of a building.  BRE is also developing guidance on the environmental impact of building materials.  This includes a revision of the Royal Mail Green Guide to Materials Specification in order to cover a wide range of specifications relating to office type buildings.  This provides designers and specifiers with a simple tool to evaluate the impact of materials and element specification on a range of environmental impacts including pollution and resource use.

EcoHomes 
This is the domestic version of BREEAM (BRE Environmental Assessment Method).  It covers use of energy and materials, both inside (eg white goods, boilers, storage space for recyclable materials) and out, and as used in construction; and how these minimise environmental impact during a building's life.  EcoHomes considers broad concerns of climate change, resource use, pollution, and impacts on bio-diversity, balanced against need for quality internal environment.  EcoHomes can be applied to houses or apartments - new, converted or renovated.  Other accommodation, such as sheltered homes or student flats, can be assessed using a custom version of BREEAM.  EcoHomes balances environmental performance with need for high quality of life, and safe and healthy internal environment.  Issues assessed are grouped into 7 categories: energy; water; pollution; materials; transport; ecology / land use; health and well-being.  Many issues are optional, so EcoHomes is flexible enough to be tailored to a particular development or market.  Assessments are carried out by independent assessors trained and licensed by BRE, based on a series of sheets completed by the developer / designer.  Cost of assessment depends on level of advice and assistance required from the assessor, and the scheme's complexity.  For example, each different house-type on a development requires a degree of separate assessment.  For the first few EcoHomes sites a developer builds, BRE advises maximum involvement of an assessor from the earliest design stage, whose advice helps ensure simple, cost-effective measures from the outset, so the highest possible rating can be achieved for minimum capital cost.  Independent assessors give a rating on a scale of Pass, Good, Very Good and Excellent.  EcoHomes is revised annually so it remains representative of best practice and takes account of technical and legislative changes.

To help estimate a likely rating to be achieved under EcoHomes, and to see the level of information an assessor requires, a 2005 pre-assessment pdf file checklist is free at www.breeam.org/ecohomes.html .  Among clear examples, it shows how credits are awarded to achieve CO2  emission levels.  BRE warns that this pre-assessment be used with caution – “BREEAM assessors require documentary evidence to support the awarding of credits. For this reason, non-assessors are likely to overestimate buildings' performance due to lack of knowledge about measurement conventions and simplification of the weighting system used.'”

Two guides are available from BRE -

• EcoHomes: the environmental rating for homes - issues covered and background to method

• The Green Guide to Housing Specification - guidance to designers and specifiers on environmental impacts of the main fabric elements commonly used in housing.

EcoHomes is currently piloted as one of the tools used through a European project called Equation, which studies the role and effect that Environmental Assessment Tools have in implementing and facilitating sustainable house construction  ( http://projects.bre.co.uk/equation ).

Is new wood from managed British woodlands sustainable?  
Using reclaimed wood should be considered a higher priority - and the first option - compared to using wood taken from forests and woodland.  This follows the Government's hierarchy of action on waste, which places reducing waste before re-use and repair, before considering recycling which uses more resources and materials.  If you do find yourself considering using new (virgin) wood from merchants or retail outlets, THE WASTEBOOK asks that you consider the following.  

Given widespread destruction of British woodlands in the last 40 years, some buyers, suppliers and makers of wood products have  concerns that increases in native timber use should not continue this destruction.  Many of these companies will argue that their business encourages sustainable management of remaining UK woodland, by providing the woods with revenue, and because they are buying and providing outlets for locally produced timber.  Some appreciate the continual need to plant new and regenerate older woodlands, by planting, say, 10 new trees for every one processed.  This can be aided by companies sponsoring tree planting schemes through local conservation groups and trusts.  

Indications of best sustainable practice from companies, and when buying wood products:  Friends of the Earth’s (FoE) Good Wood Guide lists companies and products that it respects for practices used.  You may also ask companies whether they follow FoE's Code of Conduct for the timber trade; and whether they are members of the Association for Environment Conscious Building (AECB).  You can also ask directly whether the wood used in a product or by a company is of conservation grade, and whether it is from sustainably managed woodlands.  If a wood product or a company carries the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) symbol, this is a good indication of sustainable practice, supported by a consortium of organisations such as WWF (sections 200, 230) and FoE.  Other bodies relevant to the industry include the Woodland Trust and the British Woodworking Federation (BWF).

THE WASTEBOOK encourages our site visitors to buy from companies using outlets selling reclaimed woods ( also see section 23 Timber reclamation).  Doing this reuses wood that has been harvested sometimes long ago (providing beautiful mature timber with new uses) and takes no wood from existing woodlands.  It also rescues useful and often splendid timbers from being destroyed, or rendered useless in landfill sites that scar our countryside.  It may therefore be argued that this has environmental advantages over buying wood and wood products even from sustainably managed local (UK) woodlands.  This follows the government's hierarchy of action on waste, which is, in order of priority:  Reduce, Reuse or Repair, before Recycling.  Reclaimed timbers can be found in uses varying from household accessories and furniture, to residential and building restoration projects, and can be well suited to business premises.


 Reasons for cheerfully building from reclaimed timbers, parts 1, 2, and.....  
 (from www.iobuild.co.uk/bespoke.htm) :

Ease of Construction  -  Timber frames can be speedily erected and made watertight, even in wet weather that would hinder construction of log-effect leisure buildings or traditional brick or block buildings.

Thermally Efficient  -  Wood is an effective insulating material even before additional insulating materials are added.  Timber-frame buildings are cheaper to heat and so reduce carbon emissions.

Conserves Energy  -  The energy used to manufacture timber frame buildings is low.  In contrast conventional building materials have an extremely high impact on the environment.  During construction of a concrete building, 75% of total energy expended is used in the manufacture of the building materials.  

Low Environmental Impact  -  Timber is environmentally friendly provided it comes from well-managed forests.  Unlike conventional materials, wood is a sustainable resource, as more managed European softwood is planted than cut down.

Durability and Longevity  -  Timber frames can last as long as any other type of building construction.  According to the Timber Frame Association there are Norwegian churches which are over 1,000 years old, and 200 year-old buildings in UK.  They were built from the same types of  wood employed today.

Low Maintenance  -  Cladding and roofing materials used for timber frame construction can be chosen for their very low maintenance requirements - saving resources, and labour time.

Flexibility Of Design  -  Timber frame is highly flexible and compatible with any type of cladding.  Timber frames can be used for all low-rise buildings, from garden offices to hotels.

Acoustic Performance  -  Timber frame walls provide good sound insulation (important when working in the garden).  "If all dwellings had sound insulation as good as that measured in the party walls of timber frame dwellings, the problem of noise from neighbours would be greatly reduced" (Building Research Establishment acoustics study).


The alphabetical listings which follow provide advice and information sources on environmental issues related to buildings, conservation and traditional crafts.  The list includes expertise on alternative construction techniques, and suppliers of potentially more environmentally benign products for new buildings.

Also see: 
Building materials reclamation (22)
Timber reclamation (23)
Architectural salvage (24)
Furniture from reclaimed materials (350)

Alphabetical list of organisations



AECB - see Association for Environment Conscious Building


Altham Hardwood Centre
Tel 01282 771618  Fax 01282 777932
Website www.oak-beams.co.uk  Email info@oak-beams.co.uk ,  sales@oak-beams.co.uk
Altham Corn Mill, Burnley Road, Altham, Accrington, Lancs BB5 5UP
Contact  Derek Goffin

Buyer, supplier and maker of wood and wood products from managed UK woodlands.  Founded with ethos of encouraging growth of managed UK timber.  Buys thinnings and less commercial wood trunks and branches, for example from Lake District, Shropshire, Welsh Marches, and Lincolnshire.  Specialist in hand cut and finished beams, footbridges, roof trusses and imaginative structures.  Supplies green, air dried, and kiln dried British hardwoods for customers use.  Stocks mainly oak, plus elm, ash, yew and sometimes other interesting species.  Will advise when green oak can be used and when air or kiln dried is more suitable.  Examples of use include spiral staircase, green oak joists, posts and green oak for byre walls.  Inspects standing trees and tags them for future collection and for audit trail.  Will buy from woodlands managed to Forestry Commission standards.  Would like to become and encourages all its wood suppliers to work towards FSC certification.  Points out however that carefully managed local / UK timber has sustainable benefits even if not officially certified; willing to take from any UK woodland, but promotes most local supply possible for environmental transport and cost reasons.  Open Mon-Fri 8.30-5.  Conservation projects have included large site carpentry and joinery repair work, including curved braces cut from bent stock.  Website gives examples of technical expertise and specifications, for example adapting British Standard 5756 Visual Grading of Tropical Hardwood to allow for characteristics of English Oak beams.  Sponsors, through local conservation groups, the planting of ten new trees for every one processed.  Listed in Friends of the Earth’s Wood Guide, and supports their Code of Conduct for timber trade.  Member of Association for Environment Conscious Building (AECB) and The Woodland Trust.  Altham Hardwood Centre is a Workers Co-operative.   (Updated Feb 2005)


Amazon Nails
Tel 0845 458 2173  Tel / Fax 01706 814696
Website www.strawbalefutures.org.uk  Email info@strawbalefutures.org.uk   
Hollinroyd Farm, TODMORDEN OL14 8RJ
Contact  Barbara Jones, Bee Rowan

Small building firm established by proprietor Barbara Jones about 1982, now specialising in straw bale construction and lime rendering / lime plastering.  Offers design, advice, consultancy and training to prospective builders, self-builders, architects and community groups who want to build with straw bales.  Help with planning or building regulations.  Involvement with projects as much or as little as required (eg working with local draughtspersons, architects, and training carpenters, builders, roofers, plasterers, plumbers or electricians).  The key to a durable and energy efficient strawbale building lies in good design, understanding the principles, quality work and attention to detail throughout the building process.  Talks, courses, workshops, site visits, construction advice and publications.  Courses and publications listed on website.  Reasonable consultancy charges, listed onsite; but for individuals and unfunded groups who cannot meet costs, 10 minutes of free telephone consultancy on Wed afternoons between 2 and 6.  Originating in the American Midwest in the 1870s as a practical, rapid method of building weatherproof shelters, straw baling has been refined and developed as a modern, cutting edge, energy efficient construction technique costing less than 50% of conventional building.  Although new to Britain, over 400 durable, individually styled and beautiful homes have been built in the western American states.  Guide to straw bale building downloadable from website, and DVD for sale.  (Updated May 2005)


Association for Environment Conscious Building (AECB) 
Tel 0845 4569773 or 01559 370908 
Website www.aecb.net  Email llanidloesoffice@aecb.net or admin@aecb.net 
PO Box 32, LLandysul, SA44 5ZA (previously Nant-Y-Garreg, Saron, LLANDYSUL, Carms SA44 5EJ) 


Association of building trade professionals and craftspeople promoting use of ecologically sound construction materials, techniques and building design.  Much info on website, including useful FAQ section and links.  Members have access to latest information and research on products and building methods which are safe, healthy and sustainable.  Environmental performance is measured, and those complying are included in the 'Greenpro' database, at www.newbuilder.co.uk, an internet library of, and fast way of specifying, eco-building products for the UK (subs £35+VAT).   'Green' projects undertaken by members are also eligible for the Association's Eco-Certificate - SPEC (Sustainable Projects Endorsement Scheme).  To subscribe or submit news or events to Network newsletter, email network@aecb.net .  Email llanidloesoffice@aecb.net  for general enquiries, membership and administration.   (Updated Aug 2005)


Auro Organic Paint Supplies Ltd
Tel 01799 584888  Fax 01799 584042
Unit 1, Goldstones Farm, Ashdon, SAFFRON WALDEN, Essex CB1 2LZ

Imports paints, waxes, varnishes and woodstains in full range of colours from wood resins, plant chemicals and earth pigments. Production leaves no environmentally damaging wastes. Natural compatibility with wood allows 'breathing' and gives durability.


BedZed  (Beddington Zero Energy Development)
Tel 0208 404 4880  Fax 0208 404 4893
Email info@bioregional.com  Website www.bioregional.com
BedZED Centre, 24 Helios Road, WALLINGTON, Surrey SM6 7BZ

A showcase, occupied, low energy design development by the BioRegional Development Group.  On-site renewable energy generation and water treatment, low impact construction materials, green transport strategy and green lifestyle package – car club, cycling, recycling and composting, local food links. The free exhibition is illustrated with video presentations and architectural models and includes access to a ZED showhome. Open 9.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday For a guided tour (about 2hrs, from £10 to £20 + VAT, details on website) booking is essential.  BedZED has NO visitors parking. It is recommended that visitors come by public transport.  BedZED is a living, working model of sustainability: visitors must respect the privacy of residents and businesses, so should not walk around the development unless as part of a guided tour.  Also meeting and seminar venue.  The Construction Materials report describes how environmental impact was reduced by 20-30% by selecting reclaimed, recycled, local and low impact materials.  It provides a 'Toolkit' of how to achieve this environmental saving on any construction job without extra cost!   It includes energy and lifecycle analyses and environmental profiling comparisons by BRE, case studies for individual materials and cost comparisons with alternatives.  It describes how the materials were sourced, specified and used, contact details of suppliers and contractors.  It forms Part 1 of the Toolkit for Carbon Neutral Developments.   Also see entries for Bioregional in sections 14 (wood waste), 15 (wood burning), 31(paper and card), 350 (furniture & reclaimed wood products).  (Updated Nov 2002)


Best Foot Forward Limited (BFF)  
Tel 01865 250818  Fax 01865 794586
Website www.bestfootforward.com
Email mail@bestfootforward.com
The Future Centre, 115 Magdalen Road, Oxford OX4 1RQ
Contact  Craig Simmons or Nicky Chambers, Founder Directors

Consultancy specialising in sustainability metrics, resource flow and ecological footprint analyses.  Helps regions, organisations and communities reduce their environment impact  through delivering a wide range of analytical tools and consulting services.  Has developed EcoIndex and Stepwise which calculate environment impact and sustainability of a product, organisation, process, lifestyle or region.  Detailed website with many interesting sub-sections, organised under main headings: Products and services, Sustainable accounting, Publications, About us (includes case studies), and Partners.  You can also sign up to email discussion groups on carbon reporting and ecological footprinting (services - cities and regions sub-section).  Has Queen's Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development.  BFF's ecological footprint of the Isle of Wight was Overall Winner at Biffawards 2001, and Environmental Report 2002 won an ACCA UK Award for Best SME in Environmental Reporting.  See also Stepping Forward www.steppingforward.org.uk sustainability assessment for the entire South West of England (see below or sections 210 Assistance, Advice and Consultants, 220 or 230; and 400, 430, or 450 Energy Use and Climate Change).Other publications include: Scotland's Footprint, Material Health (mass balance and ecological footprint of NHS) and City Limits (resource flow and ecological footprint of Greater London, Biffaward 2003 finalist in R&D category). 

Develops products and services for three main audiences:  businesses and organisations - assess performance, raise awareness of issues amongst staff and/or customers; cities and regions - measure and monitor performance of regions and communities; education/campaigns - public communication and awareness raising.  Undertakes projects in many other areas, happy to discuss requirements.  For more technical information see their Services and Accounting web sections.  Tools used - resource flow and mass balance accounting; greenhouse gas (carbon) reporting; ecological analyses. Applications include - corporate environment strategy and reporting; regional sustainability assessments and scenario development; lifestyle analysis eg transport, food, housing and purchasing choices; waste and energy management and policy development; strategic environmental assessments (SEA); product impact assessment; education and awareness raising.  Website designed by Lumpy Lemon, see section 210 Assistance, Advice and Consultants. (Updated Nov 2005)


BioRegional Reclaimed
Tel 020 8404 0647  Fax 020 8404 4893
Email info@bioregional-reclaimed.com  Website www.bioregional-reclaimed.com 
17 Dunster Way, Helios Road, Hackbridge, Surrey SM4 7PE or
17 Dunster Way, BedZED, Wallington, Surrey SM6 7DA

'Reclaimed building materials made easy'.  Specialist in source and supply, to order, for construction.  Large quantities and wide range.  Advises on potential for using reclaimed, covering appropriate materials, availability, cost, quality, design and lead times, and "big hit" environmental savings options, saving clients landfill disposal costs.  Takes, and finds use for architectural salvage, scrap, demolition, and surplus:  steel, timber, paving, stone, interior fittings, doors, and many materials that would otherwise be chipped, recycled or landfilled.  Quantified assessment of environmental impact reduction from reclaimed materials use.  Case studies, reports, articles (links from website); enquiries welcome.  Web covers ongoing business:  offers, listing current stock and urgent supply items; wants; supply, extraction; environmental impact reduction; materials consultancy; clients; practical links.  ' Use of reclaimed building materials in place of new is a most effective way for the construction industry to reduce environmental impact and become more sustainable' (see their Why Reclaim? web section).  Reclaimed concrete railway sleepers can be used as foundations.  Offers more than scrap value for straight sections of structural steel.  Will extract and transport materials, including for clients moving materials for own use.  Clear website has depth, hyperlinks include informative industry reports (Environmental Impact Reduction Using Reclaimed Building Products; Toolkit for Carbon Neutral Developments).  Has clients who positively choose reclaimed materials for environment reasons.  References from high profile clients available.  Developed at BioRegional Development Group sustainability specialists, BioReclaimed first built a supply chain system for large volumes of reclaimed materials on BedZED project 2000, and is now an established independent trading subsidiary.  (Updated May 2005)

BRE (Building Research Establishment)
Tel 01923 664454  Fax 01923 664103 / 664010
Email enquiries@bre.co.uk  Website www.bre.co.uk  
Centre for Sustainable Construction, BRE, Garston, WATFORD, Herts WD2 7JR

UK’s leading construction and fire research centre.  The Centre for Sustainable Construction at BRE provides advice on all aspects of green building.  Topics covered include environmental impact, energy efficiency, indoor and outdoor pollution and contaminated land.   BRECSU (Building Research Energy Conservation Support Unit - see below) is part of BRE and is responsible for disseminating best practice advice on energy use in buildings.  BRECSU produces publications, many free of charge, and runs workshops and other events.  Also see BRE's Centre for Waste and Recycling, in section 22 Building materials reclamation.  The centre initiated a materials information exchange for the construction industry: if you have a waste material looking for a market contact Rod Collins on collinsr@bre.co.uk or visit the SalvoMIE Materials Information Exchange website (also in section 22 Building materials reclamation).  The  scheme allows the construction industry to buy and sell used, secondhand and unused materials over the internet.  Publishes report: Deconstruction and re-use of construction materials.  


BREEAM
Tel 01923 664462 / 664676  Fax 01923 664103  
Email breeam@bre.co.uk  Website www.bre.co.uk  
The BREEAM Centre, Centre for Concrete Construction, Building Research Establishment, Garston, WATFORD, Herts WD2 7JR

The Building Research Establishment (BRE - see entry directly above), now a private company, has carried out research on building materials recycling for years and their recycling team is a mine of information on construction waste recycling and minimisation.  Offers workshops, newsletters and expert advice for local authorities, local organisations and industry.  Initiated a materials information exchange for the construction industry: if you have a waste material looking for a market contact Rod Collins on collinsr@bre.co.uk or visit the SalvoMIE Materials Information Exchange website (see sections 22/24/120).  The scheme allows users of reclaimed / recycled materials to buy and sell used, secondhand and unused materials over the internet.  Information and links on and Centre for Sustainable Construction.  See also BRE's Centre for Waste and Recycling, in section 22 Building materials reclamation.  (Updated Nov 2003)

BRECSU  
Tel 01923 664454  Fax 01923 664010 / 664787   
Email enquiries@bre.co.uk, brecsuenq@bre.co.uk  
Website www.bre.co.uk  
BRECSU, BRE, Garston, WATFORD, Herts WD2 7JR  

BRE is the UK’s leading construction and fire research centre.  BRECSU is part of BRE and is responsible for disseminating best practice advice on energy use in buildings.  BRECSU produces publications (many free of charge) and runs workshops and other events.  See also Centre for Sustainable Construction, see BRE above; and BRE's Centre for Waste and Recycling, in section 22 Building materials reclamation.  


BREMAP
Tel 01923 664427  Fax 01923 664786
Email bremap@bre.co.uk   Website www.bremap.co.uk  www.bremap.co.uk/bremap/search.jsp
Contact  Rachel Harrex;  Michelle Sjogren Leong leongm@bre.co.uk (01923 664516)

Geographical information system, which together with SalvoMIE materials information exchange (see below) gives best practical options for UK sites and companies having to deal with waste.  Part of SmartWaste (www.smartwaste.co.uk - see below).  Provides locations of businesses involved in collection, storage, haulage, reuse, reclamation, recycling and disposal of construction and demolition wastes.  Encapsulates many existing databases and much industry literature detailing landfill sites, transfer stations, incinerators, recycling sites, reclamation companies, composting facilities and manufacturer take-back schemes.  Entering postcodes brings up an area map of waste services, available materials and products (updated daily).  Basic and advanced searches can be made.  Currently, around 9,000 companies able to perform some type of service to the industry are registered.  Companies can edit or add details using the online registration form or send an email.  Developed by BRE, funded by Biffaward landfill tax credits and Institution of Civil Engineers R&D Enabling Fund.   (Updated August 2004)


BREWEB
Tel 01923 664454  Fax 01923 664398
Website www.breweb.org.uk   Email breweb@bre.co.uk
Contact  Rachel Charleston

BRE's Waste & Environmental Body facilitates ongoing environmental improvement in waste and construction industries through landfill tax sponsorship and/or collaborative partnerships in (high-profile) demonstration and research projects.  Currently projects seeking sponsorship include: furniture resource centre building materials re-use project; high grade aggregate from oil well drilling cuttings; removing barriers to the use of by-products from steel manufacturing in construction.  See also SmartWaste below. (Updated August 2004)


Bristol's Environment Centre - see CREATE below  


Brighton & Hove Wood Recycling Project
Tel 01273 570500  Fax 01273 570600
4 Inverness Road, BRIGHTON, East Sussex BN2 3JB (postal address only) 
Unit 32-36, Municipal Market, Circus Street, BRIGHTON, East Sussex BN2 9QF (site address only)
Email info@woodrecycling.org.uk  Web www.woodrecycling.org.uk 
Contact  Richie Simpson, Managing Director; Christian Bernard - Director  

Originator of National Community Wood Recycling Project (see entry below) set up by Richard Mehmed, and developer of the Recycled Wood Marque.  About 6,000 tonnes of wood a year is landfilled from the Brighton and Hove area alone.  Much is worth saving - the Woodstore is filled with tonnes of  reusable timber, most from the construction / demolition industry.  There is also wooden packaging waste and many non-returnable pallets (see section 52).  Much household wood ends up at the local tip, or stays in garages and sheds for years.  As most "waste" timber is commercial, a charge can be made to take it away - at less than the cost of a skip, so there is a financial and environmental incentive to recycle.  Sponsored by 3 environmentally aware local building companies, a small truck was bought to collect from their building sites.  Timber was separated and stacked for collection.  The loads are sorted and as much as possible re-used, for instance as floorboards, skirting, shelves and craft materials.  Only 15% of the timber collected is returned to the waste stream.  Also collects from firms with packaging waste and pallets, and members of the public.  

A classification system was developed with the following grades:  
Grade 1   Timber good enough to sell back to the DIY / builders market.  Altough virtually anything will be useful to someone, grade 1 is wood at least 2 metres long, relatively sound, free from bad splits, nails and other contaminants.  Also sheet materials including ply, chipboard, hardboard and MDF over  1 metre square; doors in good condition; pieces of hardwood and anything "interesting".  Al though the wood might look dirty, it is suitable for many uses. 
Grade 2
Clean and sound, but too short or small to be easily sold for DIY.  Suitable to make wood products, from compost bins, bookshelves, art &craft items to high quality furniture.  Making and selling such items is a good way to raise cash and to get across the potential for using recycled wood.  The Recycled Wood Marque helps too, making it easier to identify recycled wood products. 
Grade 3
Around 80% of all wood waste, this grade is the biggest challenge - rotten fence posts, small offcuts, broken doors and everything that doesn't fit into the other two grades.  Much firewood is sold to local farmers with wood-fired boilers heating greenhouses;  lots is re-manufactured into chipboard.  A reasonably sustainable use for the large volume of this grade is as a fuel; one aim is to encourage installation of wood-fired heating / hot water systems in suitable buildings. With the need to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, wood could be widely used.  (Updated Nov 2005) 


British Earth Sheltering Association (BESA)
Tel 01600 860359 / 01993 703619
Email peter@caerllan.co.uk  Website www.besa-uk.org 
100 The Crofts, WHITNEY, Oxon OX8 7AG (membership address)
Contact  Peter Carpenter

Non profit organisation encouraging the design and construction of Earth Sheltered buildings, pioneered in the US, Japan and Europe.  Partially or completely set into the ground, such buildings are covered by a layer of about 18" of earth acting as a kind of blanket.  The two major environmental advantages are that buildings can be covered in plants, helping to conserve the countryside around by building in harmony with nature; and that the earth acts as a massive insulator, allowing huge energy savings, with virtually no contribution to global warming.  The easiest method is to build into a hillside, so three sides and the roof of a building are buried while the fourth is mostly glass to gain maximum sunlight.  Light, space, vegetation and water can be used to full advantage, both inside and out, with the roof turned into a garden.  Space-saving and architecturally exciting inside, with low environmental and visual impact, buildings can be integrated with the landscape. Warehouses, factories, car parks, visitor centres, theatres, libraries and offices may be built below ground, with daylight from above and parks, gardens, crops or car parking on top.  Steep south-facing hillsides are ideal sites.  Further advantages are earthquake and weather protection, no draughts or condensation problem, cheaper to build (excavation is a source of materials), greater security, quiet and private but light and airy, little structural maintenance, low visual impact, and low fire risk so lower insurance.  Membership starts at £15: members receive 3 bulletins a year, and have free access to the BESA library and photocopying at Caer Llan Berm House, Lydart, near Monmouth NP25 4JS.  An introduction to the subject, Sod It, £11 inc p&p; and a book of design ideas, Underground Designs, are available to members at £15.00 inc p&p.  Many members are architects, some very experienced in design of earth shelters. Waterproofing needs to be done properly, so specialist advice should be taken, but a carefully designed and built earth shelter will never let the water in.  BESA also offers planning advice, and can suggest homes which might be visited by appointment.  Also see Hockerton Housing Project below.  (Updated Nov 2002)


BSRIA (Building Services Research and Information Association) Ltd
Tel 01344 465600  Fax 01344 465626  Email  bsria@bsria.co.uk
Websites  www.bsria.co.uk  and  www.managenergy.net/actors/A1289.htm
Old Bracknell Lane West, BRACKNELL, Berkshire, RG12 7AH 
Contact  Anne King  

Independent research, testing and information organisation for building services industry, aimed at architects, designers, legislators, specifiers, consultants and contractors, equipment manufacturers, building operators, facilities managers and end users.  Supplier and consultant on efficient use of energy within buildings, and sustainable building products and services such as artificial lighting, cogeneration and district heating, energy management, heating and ventilation systems and pumps, recovery and storage, energy audits.   Provides access to best practice information, textbooks, reports, codes of practice, journals, literature searches and online bookshop.  Runs collaborative research programme and market studies based on industry needs.  Immediate access to experts for problem solving, specification and certification.  Website includes 'Energy & Environment' main section, with subsections covering:  Codes and Standards, Design of Test Facilities, Energy in Buildings, Environmental Assessments, Failure Investigations, Product Research and Development, Water in Buildings. 

Detail Drawings service provides library of over 850 drawings and symbols illustrating common building services, design and installation.  Drawings can be searched quickly, and downloaded into any standard CAD software package.  Produced with direct input from building services manufacturers, installers and designers, drawings follow current best practice.  Details from www.barbour-index.co.uk/content/aboutservices/bsria.asp
(Updated Nov 2005)


Building for a Future 
Website www.newbuilder.co.uk/bffmag/index.asp
Green Building Press - see separate entry for full address 
Editor  Keith Hall

Sustainability journal for UK construction industry.  Quarterly news and information on green building, for everyone including owners and users.  Celebrating 15 years of publication.  Charts progress of the industry's rapidly expanding 'sustainability sector'.  In-depth project reports, news, features, analysis and comment from leading designers, builders, researchers and institutions.  Product launches, updates, forecasts; jobs and contracts opportunities; training; events, exhibitions, conferences, executive reports; regulatory changes, grants, and certification; special offers on books, events and products.  Recent back issues fully downloadable online.  Back issues and other books available from shop (full list online).  Showcases selected websites participating in Green Building Webring (see below).  Green Building Archive online including technical articles.  Subscription £20.00 annually, including free copy of Green Building Bible (see below) - discounts for 2 years and over.  See also GreenPro directory below.  (Updated Oct 2004)


Building Research Energy Conservation Support Unit - see BRECSU above  


CABE Space
Tel 020 7070 6700  Fax 020 7070 6777
Website www.cabespace.org.uk  Email enquiries@cabe.org.uk 
1 Kemble Street, LONDON  WC2B 4AN
Contact  Julia Thrift, Director

Works for better public spaces in towns and cities.  Part of CABE (see section 400 Social, Ecological & Lifestyle Aspects of Waste).  Aims to bring excellence to design, management and maintenance of parks and public spaces.  These are '...for everyone, places to live and breathe, walk and run, rest or play...  meet together, stop to reflect, revive spirits.  But many spaces are poorly designed and badly managed.'  Works with local authorities and other bodies responsible for public space to help them provide better service.  Encourages councils to think holistically about green space and what it means for health and well being, routes to school and work, and recreation through play and sport.  Organises and provides training.  Wants to ensure every person in England has easy access to well designed, well looked after public space.  'Parks and green spaces are as essential to cities as roads and sewers, breathing life into communities, bringing charm, beauty, character, nature, and wildlife.  If you live in a deprived area, your parks are likely to be in a worse condition than in a wealthier area.'  Website's publications section has many documents which you can download for free.  Established 2003 as part of CABE, the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment, which champions the quality of buildings and spaces.  CABE Space is publicly funded by Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM).  From www.cabespace.org.uk/news/speeches/newstatesman.html :  'From Rags to Riches: the case for better public spaces' by Sir Stuart Lipton - NewStatesmanlecture.pdf  :  "...there is a poverty of creativity and innovation; we are afraid to play, we need to start taking more risks, to experiment, to have some fun.    ...the planning system is stuck. The profession and the process require a complete overhaul... to be at the root of excellence in urban form."   (Updated Nov 2005)


Carpenter Oak & Woodland Company
Tel 01225 743089
Hall Farm, Thickwood Lane, Colerne, CHIPPENHAM, Wilts SN14 8BE

Manufacture of timber frame, peg-jointed constructions to traditional designs in unseasoned oak.  Includes structures for DIY erection and completion in local materials.


Casa Paint Ltd
Tel 01296 770139
PO Box 77, THAME, Oxon OX9 3FZ

Paints based on acrylic resin.  Sold in Homebase.


Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT)
Tel 01654 705950  Fax 01654 702782  Mail order tel 01654 705959  Mail order fax 01654 705999  Shop 01654 705993
Website www.cat.org.uk  Email  (various - see website)
MACHYNLLETH, Powys SY20 9AZ

It is an enjoyable and educational experience to visit this seven-acre permanent exhibition of sustainable technology with residential community set in a  reclaimed slate quarry, now a wildlife haven.   Activities powered mainly by water, wind and sun.  Offers consultancy on practical renewable energy solutions.  Runs training courses such as renewable energy systems, self-build houses, organic growing and biological waste treatments including composting and reed bed sewerage systems.  Welcomes British and foreign stamps (still on the paper) - send to Barbara Wallace at CAT.  These are sorted then sold to dealers or collectors.  Money raised fund CAT’s environmental volunteer service.  New displays on Energy, Recycling, the Home and Work planned for 2005, and construction begins, open to the public, of new educational establishment, "the greenest building project in the UK".  Water-balanced cliff railway opens for the season on 14 March.  Demonstrations on 9 June 2005 of spinning and weaving techniques using recycled rags.  Produces many  informative newssheets, publications, and quarterly magazine Clean Slate, email cleanslate@cat.org.uk .  Visitor centre open every day.  Gift shop near the entrance stocks many interesting goods and books - also mail order catalogue.  Cafe serves delicious organic and fair trade food on premises.  Runs membership organisation, ATA (Alternative Technology Association).  Subsidiary in Machynlleth: Quarry shop wholefoods 01654 702339 and cafe 01654 702624.   (Updated Dec 2004)


Chiltern Open Air Museum
Tel 01494 871117  Fax 01494 872163
Newlands Park, Gorelands Lane, CHALFONT ST GILES, Bucks HP8 4AD

Registered charity.  Permanent collection of region vernacular buildings through the ages.  Set in 45 acres of parkland, together with a working Victorian farm, complete with animals.  Apart from a reconstructed Iron Age roundhouse, all the buildings have been rescued from destruction and carefully restored and re-erected on site with volunteer assistance.  As well as providing a superb family day out, particularly on the frequent special event days, the exhibits demonstrate and give insight into traditional construction techniques of using mainly close to hand natural materials, requiring little expenditure of energy or use of long distance transport.  Opening hours (April-Oct): weekdays 2 to 6pm; weekends and bank holidays 11 to 6pm.  Information line (events etc):  Tel 01494 872163.


Chindwell Co Ltd
Tel 0208 205 6171  Fax 0208 205 8800
Hyde House, The Hyde, LONDON NW9 6JT

Supplier of hardwood doors (FSC certified - see Forestry Stewardship Council) made of rubberwood from Malaysia.


 Construction Industry Environmental Forum (CIEF) - managed by CIRIA, see section 20 Construction and demolition wastes 
Tel 0 207 549 3300  Fax 0207 253 0523
Web www.cief.org.uk  Email enquiries@cief.org.uk  
CIEF, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, LONDON  EC1V 9BP
Contact  Sarah Reid, Network Manager

A partnership between the three leading construction industry research organisations - CIRIA (Construction Industry Research and Information Association - see section 20), BRE, and BSRIA (both listed above) - together with the DTI.  Provides information exchange on environmental issues affecting the industry.  Established 1991, its mission is to improve the sustainable and environmental performance of construction, by providing a cross-sector independent forum for new ideas and demonstration of best practice.  Members (currently over 230 organisations) include clients, developers, contractors, consultants, architects, specialists, research bodies and academic institutions.  Events, workshops and seminars it has organised include:  Sustainable water management;  Low carbon buildings (eg new build or refurbishment debate; best practice for new build and refurbishment;  the challenge of existing stock...);  Sustainable construction (consultation and vision).  Plans to develop a Green Guide for professional tradespeople and small businesses to reduce the building industry's environmental impact.   (Updated Nov 2005)


Construction Resources (Ecological Building Centre, and Merchants)
Tel 0207 450 2211  Fax 0207 450 2212 
Email info@ecoconstruct.com  Website www.constructionresources.com or www.ecoconstruct.com
16 Great Guildford Street, LONDON SE1 0HS

A centre selling and distributing materials for sustainable building.  Warehouse and trade counter open to public for unique range of state of the art domestic and commercial building products, combining maximum use of safe, healthy, renewable, recyclable, natural materials with minimum energy use.  Actively promotes environmentally sound design and practice.  Building materials, services (heating, water and renewable energy), interiors, tools, furniture.  Includes rainwater storage systems, paints and varnishes made from natural pigments without use of solvents, thermal insulation produced from recycled newspaper, acoustic insulation from recycled rubber tyres, passive solar heaters from cardboard, and building with unfired clay.  Low-temperature wall heating, high-efficiency wood-burning stoves and boilers, water saving and rainwater recycling systems, timber construction. Three floors of displays include large-scale sample constructions, showing how and where products and systems are used, and materials and systems themselves such as solar collectors, rainwater filters, rolls or slabs of wool, flax or recycled newsprint insulation material.  As many of the products as possible have been built into the building's working fabric, providing 'live' demonstration in addition to static display.  Information sheets available.  Website has free downloads of technical documentation, installation notes and prices for products and publications.  One example: ES Solar Roof which can cover a whole roof as an efficient solar collector for hot water, space heating, etc.  Runs seminars for public and professionals, training courses for trades on installation and maintenance.  Tours available.  Open Mon-Fri 10-6, Wed until 7pm.  (Updated Nov 2005)


Cornwall Sustainable Building Trust (CSBT)
Tel 01726 68654  
Email paul@csbt.org.uk   Website www.csbt.org.uk 
Eden's Watering Lane Nursery, Lobb's Shop, ST AUSTELL, Cornwall PL26 6BE
Contact  Paul Bright, Company Secretary
 
Exists to raise awareness and minimise impacts of construction on Cornish and global environments.  Target: all parties to be building towards the common aim of sustainability.  Members include NHS, CUC, CCC, Eden Project, Local Authorities, Housing Associations, individuals, community groups, designers, manufacturers, builders and others from all walks of life.  Values strong, effective partnerships; has a talented Board of Directors/Trustees keen to engage people.  'Tell us what you are doing and what help, advice and training you think is needed.'  Helps construction related organisations take advantage of growing sustainable construction markets; and individuals move towards sustainable homes.  Website has directory of sustainable building suppliers and services; training courses, competitions, exhibitions;  Xchange for supplies and labour skills; and interesting links.  Connects and integrates activities, businesses, projects and organisations.  Training in traditional and sustainable building (enroll by post or online), latest news and events.  Welcomes info for publication.  Once registered (quick and free), you can contact members, builders, suppliers or organisations.  Showcases sustainable projects in and around Cornwall.  Licensed BRE EcoHomes assessor - contact CSBT for advice / assessment.  Contact BRE (listed above) for developers pack, and fill in form for assessment.  Membership ranges from £6.00 unwaged / low income / student, and £10 individual / community / voluntary sector, to £50 private sector 1-5 employees, and £300 for 26+ employees.  (Updated Oct 2004)


CREATE  (Bristol's Environment Centre)  
Tel 0117 925 0505  Fax 0117 922 4444  
Email create@bristol-city.gov.uk  
Website www.bristol-city.gov.uk/create, www.bristol-city.gov.uk/susdev/crhome.html  
Smeaton Road, BRISTOL BS1 6XN

Home to over 20 voluntary organisations, small businesses and charities working in different areas of sustainable development, including: Sustainable Energy, Recycling,  Eco-tourism, Local Agenda 21, Education and Research, Air and Water Quality, Wildlife,  Conservation.  Hosts the Sustainable Development Teams of Bristol City Council which owns and runs Create.  The demonstration Ecohome next to CREATE is full of ideas and information on eco-friendly construction and living.  Create's many activities include: Recycling Exhibition - hands on journey through waste and recycling, available for schools and groups for environment education;  Sustainable Construction Resource Library;  'Creating News' biannual newsletter, available online;  annual themed Events Diary including large public Open Days, Lectures and Talks (eg Fair Trade, local history, international arts, green building);  Exhibitions and Displays;  Workshops;  Tours.  Interesting ideas include local artwork printed and sewn on fair-trade re-usable organic cotton shopping bags.  Large adaptable gallery space on ground floor;  Conference Facilities and Meeting Rooms of varying sizes;  70 seater auditorium;  all for hire at reasonable prices.  Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, for visitors in all public areas on ground and first floors, and The Ecohome is open 12-3pm.   Special bookings and tours can be arranged, including outside of these hours.   Cafe serves hot meals, snacks and drinks, Mon-Fri 9am-2pm.  One floor of Create is dedicated to Lifeskills - Learning for Living, a series of realistic everyday sets including a street scene, home and garden, supermarket and countryside area, with various hazards and safety scenarios.  Designed to help children and other sectors of the community learn about safety  www.lifeskills-bristol.org.uk  (open Mon-Fri for pre-booked visits).  Create is located in Cumberland Basin, near Clifton Suspension Bridge.  (Updated Mar 2004)


Crucial Trading Ltd
Tel 0207 221 9000   Head Office: 01562 835 656 / 01562 743 747
Email crucial@dial.pipex.com  Website www.crucial-trading.com
79 Westbourne Park Road, LONDON W2 5QH

Supplier and installer of a wide range of durable natural floor coverings including sisal, seagrass, coir, jute, wool.  Established over 15 years.  Useful info on website including map with list of retailers.  Call HO (Birmingham) for free samples and catalogue.  (Updated Nov 2003)


The Cutting Edge
Tel 01257 792025  Email sales@eco-craft.co.uk  Website www.eco-craft.co.uk  
Dept GP, Unit 14, CEC, Mill Lane, Coppull, LANCS PR7 5BW  

Crafts company sourcing from reputable green suppliers.  Recycled papers, cards, adhesives, craft knives and cutters, fabric paints and inks, rubber stamps, punches etc.  Phone for catalogue.  (Updated Feb 2002)


Dry Stone Walling Association of Great Britain
Tel / Fax 0121 378 0493
c/o YFC Centre, National Agricultural Centre, STONELEIGH PARK, Warwicks CV8 2LG

Craft preservation association of about 1000 members.  Advice, information and publications on construction, repair and design of special features.  Register of certified wallers and dryers.


ECD Architects (Energy Conscious Design) & ECD Project Services  
Tel 0207 939 7500  Fax 0207 939 7501
Website www.ecda.co.uk  Email ecda@ecda.co.uk 
Studio 3, Blue Lion Place, 237 Long Lane, LONDON SE1 4PU

Practice offering architecture and energy and environmental consultancy services.  Committed to design excellence, sustainability and commercial reality.  Operates in four main sectors: residential, commercial, education, arts / leisure.  90 built projects since 1980, from single dwellings to major urban regeneration masterplans.  Aims to create added value for clients through good design and by taking account of changes likely to affect use of buildings over their lifetime.  Has two operations :  1) full architectural services from design to completion;  and 2) sustainable design consultancy and advice (ECD Project Services).  Services include BREEAM and EcoHomes assessments on developments and buildings.  Aims to use these positive assessments on all work.  Can highlight and assess environment profile of schemes as a whole.  Advice on sustainable procurement at every stage.  Assessors for SAP, NHER & EcoHomes ratings (contact Julian Williams williams@ecda.co.uk 0207 405 3121).  Winners of many awards since 1996, when they won Green Building of the Year for Linacre College Oxford - which minimises environment impact by accounting for embodied energy in materials, and employs recycled materials, grey water recycling, low energy lighting and energy efficiency to reduce CO2 emissions and ecological footprint.  Rolls Crescent public housing scheme, Hulme, features in the book, Manchester: ‘Shaping the City’ published recently by RIBA Enterprises.  (ECD Architects evolved separately after ECD Energy and Environment Ltd became part of Faber Maunsell's Sustainable Development Group.)   (Updated Nov 2005)


Earth and Reed Ltd
Tel / Fax  01449 722 255
Website www.earth-and-reed.co.uk  Email sales@earth-and-reed.co.uk 
Old Town Hall, High Street, NEEDHAM MARKET, Suffolk IP6 8AL

Supplier of sustainably sourced and produced and safe to use building and decorating materials.  Company addresses concerns over tropical deforestation, sick building syndrome, asthma and allergies.  Principle is Healthy buildings, Healthy people.  Non-toxic, high quality finish, and low energy in production.  Containers recyclable: some can be returned to shop. Surplus materials can be re-used or safely disposed of, as biodegradable.  Products (none from petro-chemicals) include paints, claypaints, linseed oil paints, waxes and soaps; paint, artex and graffiti remover; colourwashes, varnishes, fence and shed paint; mineral pigments; insulation - sheepswool, cellulose, flax, thermal boards; reed panels and rolls, clays. building blocks; putty for limewash, renders and mortar; handmade tiles, brushes.  Open 10-5 Wed-Sat; other times by appointment.  All waste paper, cardboard, plastic, glass and metal entering the premises is either re-used or recycled.  Environmental statement on website.   Visitors welcome to the shop.  Also provides consultancy on historic buildings.  (Updated Dec 2004)


Earthships
England:   Website www.lowcarbon.co.uk/earthships.html  Email forum@lowcarbon.co.uk   Tel 0870 765 9896 or 07903 808 044 (mobile)   Earthship Brighton, Stanmer Park, near University of Sussex, near BRIGHTON, East Sussex
Scotland:   Website www.sci-scotland.org.uk/earthship.html  Email inquiry@sci-scotland.org.uk   Tel 01592 891884   Sustainable Communities Initiatives, Craigencalt Farm, KINGHORN, Fife KY3 9YG
USA:   Earthship Biotecture   Website www.earthship.org  Email biotecture@earthship.org   Tel 505.751.0462  Fax 505.751.1005   PO Box 1041, TAOS, New Mexico, USA 87571  Low cost sustainable buildings, systems and education.  Over 10,000 members. Comprehensive support, including training, publications and funding. UK energy and related weblinks onsite.

Buildings which reduce our impact on the planet and increase our connection to it.  Passive solar buildings with thermal mass, made from natural and recycled materials including earth-rammed tyres and aluminium cans.  They - use the sun's energy and walls' thermal mass for heating and cooling; generate electricity from the sun; harvest water from rain; deal directly with their own waste, eg treating sewage in planter beds; use discarded tyres and other wastes for wall construction; use materials with low carbon; buildable by most people at relatively low cost.  Not a fixed design, it is adaptable for any climate worldwide.  Using renewable energy including wind, water and solar power, it 'offers people opportunity to build homes and make conscious decisions to live lightly on the earth.'  Currently two UK Earthship sites (Brighton and Kinghorn, addresses above, and Low Carbon Network below).  Evolved over 30 years, pioneered by Michael Reynolds and residents of 3 communities in Taos, New Mexico. 

Earthship Brighton, one of Europe's first Earthships and one of Low Carbon Network's (see below) first projects, is on the south coast in Stanmer Park near Brighton, begun April 2003.  Offers a resource for education on links between buildings, climate change, waste management and consumerism.  Being ultra-low carbon, all CO2 emissions during construction and any minor emissions during use will be compensated for by reforestation making the building one of the first 'carbon balanced' developments.  Run by a growing network of environmentally concerned positive thinking builders, they welcome skilled carpenters, electricians, brick layers and volunteers - training courses available, tel 07903 808 044.  Makes a significant contribution to reducing UK's waste tyre mountain (40 million annually) by use in building.  See also Stanmer Organics (400 Social).  (Updated July 2004)


East Five Builders
Tel 0208 806 6415
69 Reighton Road, LONDON E5 8SQ

Environmentally conscious brickwork, roofs, carpentry, extensions.


Ecoconstruction (Recycled Material for Construction) 
Website www.ecoconstruction.org  Email recycledmaterials@ecde.co.uk  

Green materials searchable database and guidance on sustainable construction.  Details of manufacturing processes, compostion, and suppliers.  Guidance on planning, choosing and specifying materials, to case studies of recycled and reclaimed material use.  Arranged in webpage sections under:  Why Recycle More?, Environmental Impact of Specific Materials, Choosing Materials From The Database, Project Planning, Specifying Reclaimed And Recycled Materials, Building Elements & Materials Listing.  Follows waste hierarchy principles in that:  'Re-use materials are preferred because energy, resource use, and often transport, are less than with recycled materials.'   Rating Your Scheme - a structure to help assess extent of reused and / or recycled materials used in building; and compare schemes. Explanatory notes and examples for each element, and print friendly table.  'Materials used for constructing houses frequently cause some environmental pollution during their production.  Quarries can damage landscape, metals use lots of energy in production, PVC production produces atmospheric pollution, wood can come from unsustainable sources, etc.  Reclaimed materials and products made from recycled material cause less environment damage than new products and reduce refuse and landfill.'    (Updated Nov 2005)


Ecological Building Centre - see Construction Resources above  


Ecological Design Association (EDA)
Tel 01453 765575  Fax 01453 759211
The British School, Slad Road, STROUD, Glos GL5 1QW

Promotes and encourages the design of ecologically sustainable building materials, products, systems and environments, education, the setting of standards.  Aims to enhance awareness of environmental issues in the design professions and encourage interdisciplinary contact.  Over 700 members.  Produces journal 'Eco-Design' three times a year (5000 readers), a bi-monthly newsletter for members, factsheets at £1.50 each inc p&p, and EcoDesign book service.  Reference library at central office for members.  Information and networking service for an A5 SAE.  For a fee can provide an alphabetical directory of EDA members and their services to encourage networking.  Local groups meet regularly around the UK, providing talks, workshops and visits.  Launched Feb 1991 by David Pearson, author of 'The Natural House Book', and other designers.  Local contacts: London - Matt Davies, Tel 0207 829 8345; East Anglia - David Crowther, Tel 01223 332987.


Ecology Building Society
Tel 01535 650770  Fax 01535 650780 
Email info@ecology.co.uk  Website www.ecology.co.uk 
7 Belton Road, Silsden, KEIGHLEY, West Yorks BD20 0EE

Moved to new headquarters, purpose built to ecological principles (and a library open to the public, specialising in green issues) on 10 Nov 2003.  Specialist mutual building society formed in 1981, dedicated to improving the environment by promoting sustainable housing and genuinely sustainable communities.  Unique and radical policy of mortgage lending only for: energy efficient housing; ecological renovation; derelict and dilapidated property (preserving existing buildings); small scale, ecological or community-based enterprises; low-impact lifestyles focused on self-sufficiency and the most ecological use of land.  Assets small in comparison with most other building societies, but it is growing rapidly.  Has strong commitment to maintaining its independence and mutuality of membership.  Affinity scheme with Phone Co-op (section 34).   (Updated July 2004)


Ecomerchant
Tel 01795 530130
Website www.ecomerchant.co.uk 
Head Hill Road, Goodnestone, nr FAVERSHAM, Kent ME13 9BY

Supplier of sustainable building and restoration materials to trade and public.  Includes paints, insulations, lime & earth products, guttering, bricks, flooring, rainwater harvesting, lighting, sheet materials, sunpipes, reclaimed materials.  Sole UK importer of range of Livos paints and finishes.  Vrogum energy efficient, high quality windows and doors, made to measure in Denmark, and hardwood or softwood joinery from sustainable woodlands.  Production process uses windpower.   Solar power systems including panels, pumps, sunpipes and combi-boilers.  Wide range of sustainable, durable timber - no chemical treatment.  Online ordering of some products.  Advises on selection of materials.  (Updated July 2006


 The Ethical Property Company
Tel  0845 458 3853 (local rate)  01865 207810 (national)   Fax 0870 1313013 
Email  info@ethicalproperty.co.uk   Website  www.ethicalproperty.co.uk  
2nd Floor, 9 Park End Street, OXFORD OX1 1HH
Contact  Gail Percival gail@ethicalproperty.co.uk 
(Application packs:  Tel 0845 458 9526, 9-5 Mon-Fri, or write to The Ethical Property Company PLC, Freepost LON11552, BRISTOL BS8 3ZZ.)

Buys and develops properties as centres, bringing national, regional or local social businesses, charities, co-operatives, community and campaign groups together under one roof, sharing skills and ideas.  Offers reasonable rents, flexible tenancy terms, office space and facilities designed to their needs (tenants may complete 'basic needs questionnaire').  A code of practice explains ethics by which properties are managed and what tenants can expect.  Currently over 1200 shareholders invest from £300 to £500,000, and 10 centres house 100 tenant organisations.  All use electricity from 100% renewable sources, have excellent recycling facilities, and cycle racks.  Solar panels are being installed in Bristol, and a rainwater harvesting scheme is planned for Sheffield.  Anyone can buy shares.  Shareholders can sell through a matched bargain market (Ethex, run by Triodos Bank, listed below).  Info on dividend, share price history and shareholders available.  Aims to: develop investment in 'cluster areas', to employ and train locally based ethical property developers and managers; start a charity to provide tenants' support services and access further capital for property; develop Joint Venture structure to enable tenants to co-purchase properties; and new investment such as co-housing schemes.  Invests in regeneration areas.  Tenants are from diverse fields: environment, development, refugee support, peace, women's issues, theatre and arts.  They share a world view and desire for social change.  "EPC has proved an ethical approach to business enhances financial growth." Clare Brook, Director, Socially Responsible Investment, Morley Fund Management.  "I buy shares because EPC has made a massive difference for UK campaign groups.  Most 'ethical investments' work on negative ethics: the best they offer is that you are not investing in the most obviously dodgy companies.  This one allows you actively to support causes you believe in."  George Monbiot, broadcaster and writer.  (Updated June 2004)

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)
Tel 01686 413916  Fax 01686 412176
Email fsc-uk@fsc-uk.demon.co.uk   
Website http://www.fsc-uk.demon.co.uk  
Unit D, Station Building, LLANIDLOES, Powys SY18 6EB, Wales  

Named by the Green Claims Code as an example of "What a green claim should be", FSC is a labelling system for wood indicating that it comes from responsibly managed forests.  FSC is an international non-profit organisation founded in 1993 in response to growing public demand.  It is an association of members, currently 307 from 50 countries (January 1999) representing environmental and social organisations, the timber trade and forestry industry.  To ensure independence, FSC is funded only by non-commercial donations, and fees for accreditation and membership.  FSC principles of forest management include: recognition of the rights of indigenous peoples and workers; conservation of biodiversity including water and soil, maintenance of the ecological functions of the forest; monitoring of the forest's yield and condition, social impacts; conservation of primary forests and sites of major environmental, social or cultural significance; and adherence to management principles for plantations which reduce pressure on natural forests.  Total certified area in the UK is 16,268 ha, and 12,690,848 ha globally (January 1999).

Through extensive consultation a set of standards has been developed for certifying management of British woodlands.  Accredited certification bodies in the UK are the Soil Association, Tel 0117 914 2435 (see section 440) and SGS Qualifor, Tel 01865 201212 (see below).  Over 2,000 FSC labeled products are on sale in the UK.  FSC can supply comprehensive information on sources of certified timber species and suppliers of certified wooden products worldwide.

The WWF 1995+ Group, a separate but related initiative set up in 1991, is a partnership between WWF-UK and 90 major UK companies committed to buying timber and wood products independently certified by schemes such as FSC.  Info from Catherine Graham, Tel 01483 419278, WWF UK, Branksome House, Filmer Grove, Godalming, Surrey GU7 1AB, email cgraham@wwfnet.org.


Free Form 
Tel 0207 2493 394  Fax 0207 2498 499
Website www.freeform.org.uk  Email contact@freeform.org.uk  
Hothouse, 274 Richmond Road, London Fields, LONDON E8 3QW

Centre for regeneration through creative industries.  Hosts a cluster of art and design professionals working in the public realm.  Services provided include environmental design; environmental design for schools; Green Bottle Unit (see below); community art, architecture and involvement strategies; continuing professional development training; design and technical services; design for play; landscape design; lighting; project management and brief building; strategic development; urban design and consultation; and youth arts.  
(Updated July 2004)


Gallions Ecopark
 Tel 020 8320 3435  
Website www.gallionsecopark.co.uk  Email rmiller@gallionsha.co.uk
Miles Drive, Merbury Road, Thamesmead, London SE28 
(244 bus from Woolwich Arsenal station to Merbury Road)
Contact  Rebecca Miller, Ecopark Manager

Social housing development (based on Dutch model) of 39 two, three and four bedroom houses, to address need, aim for minimum environmental impact and demonstrate sustainable living.  Energy savings parallel to BRE EcoHomes rating system - residents saving 50% on gas and electricity.  Visitor Centre and 'naked house' showhome with eco-features such as cutaways of construction techniques used and materials chosen, water-based paints, solar collectors to heat water, grey water recycling, spray taps, low-energy light fittings and separated waste bins, shows how these can be replicated elsewhere without a huge budget.  CO2 reduction and other environmental indicators calculated.  Green financing concept underpins scheme.  Tenants, occupiers and local schools actively involved in understanding and perpetuation of sustainable principles.  Part of Gallions Reach Urban Village, built on formerly contaminated land, River Thames to NW.  Village has over 1500 new homes, shops and a school, arranged around an 'ecological corridor'.  Rainwater drains into a canal network with reeds and other water plants to filter and clean the water, and provide a biologically diverse habitat for plants, insects and animals. £5 donation for tours.  (Updated Feb 2005)


Gold Lane Development, Burnt Oak, Barnet  -  see Notting Hill Housing Group below  


Green Bottle Unit
Tel 0207 2493 394  Fax 0207 2498 499
Email  caroline@green-bottle.co.uk  katy@green-bottle.co.uk   Website  www.green-bottle.co.uk 
Hothouse, London Fields, 274 Richmond Road, LONDON E8 2QW
Contact  Caroline Elliott - events, exhibitions, glass offers, visits, general advice (Tel 0207 241 7475);
Katy Fattuhi - projects, technical information, estimates, detailed advice (Tel 0207 241 7482);
Jane Bell  Community liaison (0207 241 7479)

'The art of recycled glass.'  Manufactures 100% recycled, tested, high quality glass hand made products including tiles, bricks and paviours.  Combines art, science and technology.  Reduces need for further quarrying.  Many glass types used, including green, blue, clear, TV screens, test tubes, and car side windows.  Kiln fired with various finishes.  Durable.  Commissions include London canals (including with Free Form - regeneration, art and environment and host body at Hothouse - see above), and Brighton seafront.  Can customise designs.  Uses include urban landscape features, public art, flooring, roofing, water and glass amalgamations, glass building units (maximising light), swimming pool surfaces, steps, and lit glass.  Practices and aims for reduced energy consumption and new, sustainable manufacturing techniques of use to others in industry.  Works with architects (including Foster & Partners on a recycled glass wall in Japan) and interior designers as well as their own designers, artists and crafts specialists.  Community programme offers visits to their production unit, and recycling seminars to schools and community groups.  Takes part in community events (such as Discover Hackney) and holds regular open sale days.  Detailed prices, ordering and technical data online.   (Updated July 2004)


Green Building Bible 
Website www.newbuilder.co.uk/Green_Building_Bible/index.asp 
The Green Building Press - see separate entry for full address 
Contact  Jerry Clark, Tel 01208 895103, jerry@newbuilder.co.uk 

Directory of greener architects, builders and trades in UK and Ireland.  For any building users, owners and clients, but with information for both established and prospective green construction professionals.  The 2005 edition (published December 2004) includes listings right across the green building industry.  Over thirty industry leaders contribute information and data.  Subjects covered in detail include: material selection; thermal insulation; buying an eco-home; sourcing sustainable timber; natural paints; heating; solar heating; and sustainable roofing.  Advice on accessing grants for renewable energy equipment and finding installers to carry out installation.  Recent developments, products, sources, and articles on successfully completed projects.  News, reviews, product information and events.  Includes large directory of green building professionals, listing builders, architects, plumbers etc. in your area.  Applicants wishing to be listed need to show some evidence of participation or involvement in the green building sector: membership of a recognised organisation, information relating to participation in a suitable project, or participation in or completion of an appropriate training course - listings £20.00 plus VAT, including 40 words of text and a free copy of the book.  Normal book price £6.50 including free UK delivery.  (Updated May 2005


Green Building Digest
Tel 01232 335466
Green Building Digest Office, Dept of Architecture, Queens University, BELFAST BT9 5BY
Contact  Siobhan Doolan

Source of practical information in easy-to-use format.  Materials compared for a different product each month to minimise environmental impact and encourage best practices and products from manufacturers.  Researched by Ethical Consumer.


Green Building Handbook
Tel 01264 342797  Fax 01264 342787

Practical book which considers environmental issues relating to production, use and disposal of building products and materials, enabling those involved in building projects to 'specify green'.  Researched and written by Ethical Consumer and published by E & FN Spon at £32.50 inc p & p.


Green Building Press 
Tel 01559 370798
Website www.newbuilder.co.uk 
PO Box 32, LLANDYSUL, Carmarthenshire, Wales SA44 5ZA

Established to inform and encourage green building and the industry.  Publishes Building for a Future magazine, Green Building Bible industry directory to help make buildings less harmful to the environment and community, GreenPro product directory, and Green Building Webring (see separate entries).   Dedicated to promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible construction to the widest audience - wants to help people 'Build for a Future of their own'.  Website aims to help create healthy, sustainable buildings, and includes useful links.  People can submit stories, event reports, news or letters about building projects, events, the state of the industry or environment - open to the public, carpenters, plumbers, industry leaders or students - see pressroom section of website.  Also establishing a network of individuals willing to attend events, visit buildings and produce news reports for their publications - budding eco-journalists should have basic knowledge of architecture, construction or other building profession experience, keen interest in the subject and the environment in general, or be experienced journalists.  Welcomes feedback - no information or details under any circumstances passed to third parties.  (Updated Aug 2005)


Green Building Store
Tel 01484 854898  Fax 01484 854899
Email info@greenbuildingstore.co.uk   Website www.greenbuildingstore.co.uk
11 Huddersfield Road, Meltham, HOLMFIRTH, West Yorks HD9 4NJ

Manufactures and supplies a range of sustainable, environmentally-sensitive and healthier building materials, for domestic or commercial use including gardens, available online and by mail order to UK.  Products range from Ecoplus System low-emissivity timber windows and doors, to water-saving toilets and fittings, natural paints and wood finishes (particularly appropriate for young children's surroundings and for historic buildings), sheeps wool and recycled loft insulation.  Website has info and advice on sustainable building design and resources, and case studies - further info from the company. (Updated Nov 2003)


Green Building Webring
Website www.newbuilder.co.uk/webring/index.asp 
The Green Building Press - see separate entry for full address 

Includes websites with green building content, and reviews linked sites.  Welcomes being informed about new sites.  Published on the internet, and in Building for a Future magazine (see above) which showcases selected participating websites, content and people/organisation(s) involved.  (Updated Oct 2004)


GreenPro 
Website www.newbuilder.co.uk/greenpro/login.asp
The Green Building Press - see separate entry for full address 

Online internet library and archive of building products, case studies and research information.  For buildings from homes and offices to factories.  Over 1000 UK green building products in over 40 categories; in-depth descriptions of every product with many illustrated; hundreds of ecobuilding project articles; product reviews and tips on how to use them; regular news of product launches, supplier relocations and special offers; embodied energy data, costs; collated technical data and comparisons across product types which will help you make informed choices.  Taps into consumer campaigns (environmental, health and workplace) and dialogue with wide range of social interest groups to identify arising issues; helps spot upcoming product changes and new introductions, market gaps and changes in trends.  £10 one-off registration fee covers access, administration, username and password setup.  (Updated Oct 2004)


Green Shop  
Tel / Fax 01452 770629  
Email enquiries@greenshop.co.uk  Website www.greenshop.co.uk  
Bisley, STROUD, Glos GL6 7BX  

Mail order of solar, wind and water heating products, rainwater collection and harvesting systems, environment friendly paints, recycled products, wormeries, many other products, books, magazines and advice.  (Updated Nov 2003)


Green Street
Telephone: 020 8973 0429
Website www.greenstreet.org.uk  Email: info@sustainablehomes.co.uk 
Sustainable Homes, Hastoe Housing Association, Harlequin House
7 High Street Teddington, TW11 8EE

Resource mainly for housing associations and local authorities to help residents improve environmental performance in homes, and go well beyond minimum standards.  Advice on reducing housing's 25% of CO2 emissions to government target of 20%, through energy efficiency in electrical appliances, passive solar and renewables.  Materials used to refurbish homes should be low-energy, locally manufactured and long life, and be re-usable, recyclable or biodegradable.  Materials from non-renewable sources such as oil, copper, zinc and tin, and use of toxic chemicals, in manufacture should be minimised.  Natural, moisture-absorbing insulation materials (eg from recycled newspaper), natural paints, and natural flooring eliminates use of preservative and improves indoor air quality.  Refurbishment is also an opportunity to add water saving measures.  Produces 'Did you know? factsheets for residents on waste, materials, energy and water.  (Updated Feb 2005)


Green Wood Trust  
Tel 01952 432769
Station Road, Coalbrookdale, TELFORD, Shrops TF8 7DR

Charitable organisation of about 200 members encouraging effective management of woodlands and development of traditional forestry products, promoting commercial use of small diameter green timber as a constructional material.  Runs a training, research and development centre; manages woodlands and willowbeds.

Healthy Flooring Network
Tel 0207 481 9004  Fax 0207 481 9144
Email info@healthyflooring.org  Website www.healthyflooring.org 
PO Box 30626, LONDON E1 1TZ

Alliance of organisations and individuals concerned about health, asthma and allergy, founded 2000 by the Women's Environmental Network and Action against Allergy.  Carpets, for instance, act as reservoirs or sinks for dust mites, indoor and outdoor pollutants, toxins including cigarette smoke and pet allergens which can trigger allergic asthma.  The chemical fumes from a new carpet (residues from manufacture or various treatments) may represent one of several health risks.  In wet carpet, mould, fungi and mildew build up aggravating breathing problems.  PVC flooring contains chlorine.   Additives include phthalates for softening, chlorinated paraffins and tributyl tin.  These are all major sources of persistent toxins in the environment throughout the life of the flooring, and are prioritised internationally as chemicals that should be eliminated.  PVC is hard to recycle, so is a growing and costly waste problem.  Small children spend more time in close contact with the floor so are particularly at risk.  In Sweden, fitted carpets are avoided in public and official buildings, schools, nurseries and offices.  The network aims to raise awareness of the links between fitted carpets, PVC flooring and health, and to encourage and promote alternatives.  These include wood, linoleum, cork, stone, tile, laminate, bamboo and natural rubber.  Suppliers listed on website.  (Updated Nov 2003)


Hemp Union
Tel 01482 225328
24 Anlaby Road, HULL HU1 2PA

Distributor of 'Thermo Hemp' insulation material, a natural insulation product which has good breathing properties and is non-toxic, from hemp grown in Germany.  Also other hemp products by mail order.  The Hemp Union was established to promote hemp growing as an agricultural crop in the UK, which is hampered by the restrictions of UK legislation.


Hockerton Housing Project
Tel  01636 816902  
Email hhp@hockerton.demon.co.uk  Websites www.hockerton.demon.co.uk and www.hockertonhousingproject.org.uk 
The Watershed, Gables Drive, Hockerton, SOUTHWELL, Notts NG25 OQU
Contact  Nick White

A model for self-build, sustainable living, started in 1998, to reduce impact on the environment.  The UK's first earth-sheltered, self-sufficient ecological housing development.  Residents of the five houses generate their own clean energy, harvest their own water and recycle waste materials, causing minimal pollution or CO2 emissions. Amongst the most energy efficient, purpose built dwellings in Europe. There is no central heating. The five houses use the thermal mass of the buildings, passive solar heating, photovoltaics, and thermal gains from appliances and body heat.  Also has community owned wind turbine (for which !) supported by Scottish Power's green energy fund.  It will power not only homes but an electric car.  Supplementary planning guidance was created for this, and the East Midlands Regional Assembly concluded that “Developers of new build should be encouraged to construct low or zero CO2 emission developments."  

In Oct 2002 an internet Zero Emission Network, www.innovationonline.info , funded by Biffaward and Pilkington Energy Efficiency Trust, was launched to build links between small businesses and building professionals with an interest in innovation and/or new technologies, keen to learn from each other, and wishing to incorporate energy efficient technologies and materials into housing developments.  This includes a company and skills directory, news, events, articles and links, supported and stimulated by the website editorial team, while the discussion board debates the pros and cons of new techniques and different materials, to speed up their acceptance.  

The Sustainable Community Project offers a co-ordinated toolkit of services to help people establish sustainable communities, which involves a different understanding of planning, legal and financial issues, and new building techniques and technologies, as well as learning new skills and ways of relating to others.  This knowledge, and how to take the next steps, is difficult to access, and this project aims to help people move forward.  Tours, visits (not suitable for children under 12), workshops, technical consultations and interactive databases are available, eg demonstrations of homes, water and low/renewable energy systems, eco-finance, planning, sustainable transport, as well as fears and pitfalls!  (Updated Nov 2002)


Insideout Buildings
Tel  01524 737 999
Website www.iobuild.co.uk  Email lynn@iobuild.co.uk
The Green, OVER KELLET, Lancs LA6 1BU
Contact  Lynn Fotheringham

Constructs high-specification extra live/work&nb