ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines a strategic approach to reducing carbon emissions in buildings. The focus is on appropriate generic design considerations that can be addressed in priority order as practical steps to promote energy efficiency. Specific technical aspects are not covered in depth here, as most of these are explored in Chapters 5 to 9. Reference is made to selected aspects of the approved documents to the Building Regulations in England and Wales, to provide some context of regulatory frameworks for energy conservation. It should be noted that this chapter only covers strategies related to carbon mitigation. It does not address the many other issues relevant to sustainability in buildings – such as water, drainage, materials, recycling and biodiversity – which should also be considered as part of a wider strategy for sustainable design.
