ABSTRACT
It is perhaps worthwhile reminding readers of the back-ground to the current preoccupation with sustainable development.The key points to remember are:
Global warming is now an accepted scientific fact. Average annual temperatures are likely to rise by 1.5° C over the next 50 years. Many parts of the UK, particularly the east coast will be prone to flooding as sea levels rise.
Acid rain is also a problem. Over 20% of Britain's trees are affected, according to the Forestry Commission.
Rainforest destruction is continuing despite the efforts of environmental campaigners resulting in a 15% contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. It is still difficult in practice to trace the source of timber used in the building industry, in spite of recent Kite schemes.
Air quality in urban areas is a major problem with consequent cost to the health service. Asthma in young children is the fastest growing illness in the late 1990s.
The ozone hole is getting bigger; now extending to large areas over Antarctica, with a smaller but growing area over the Arctic. As the ozone layer thins, extra ultra violet radiation reaches the Earth's surface leading to an increase in skin cancer and eye cataracts.
We know that buildings contribute a significant proportion of the CO2 emissions which are a major cause of global warming. In fact about 50% of all emissions in the UK are the result of heating, lighting and ventilating buildings.
