Since its publication, the Mayor has stated that he would like to bring London’s net zero targets forward from 2050 to 2030.
A new plan to accomplish London net zero across all housing could see a £98 billion investment for a ‘greener future’ – and, according to London boroughs, will result in incredible benefits both environmentally and economically according to research.
Each of the capital’s local authorities has now agreed on the plan to cut carbon emissions from nearly four million domestic buildings in London by retrofitting to improve energy efficiency.
Currently, houses in the city are causing at least a third of London’s greenhouse gas emissions. By committing to the plan that includes upgrading all housing to an average energy performance rating of EPC by 2030, intense decarbonisation will encourage progress on the journey to net zero.
Did you know that London could spend its entire carbon budget by 2027 if it continues to emit CO2 at the current rates? Local authorities have encouraged the government to present financial incentives to motivate private retrofitting, such as green mortgages with lower rates and rewarding energy-efficient homes with Stamp Duty Land Tax.
London Councils have declared that the new targets will support over 200,000 jobs to insulating and retrofitting by the time we reach 2030, which will see an impressive boost in the economy after an unstable two years during the pandemic.
A net zero home is essentially a property that emits zero carbon – which means that the property is sufficient and thermally efficient in all energy needs and met from renewable only sources. Net zero homes will use any carbon emissions produced during the building process in renewable energy generation.
In simple terms, net zero housing across the UK means that new homes will have high energy efficiencies and the ability to generate as much energy from renewable sources as they use.
London net zero will not only benefit the environment, but it will also benefit everyone living on our planet. A green lifestyle is no longer about ‘making sacrifices’ but a chance for us all to enjoy a better life.
A recent study from Nature Climate Change analysed 18 carbon-cutting measures at home and work, focusing on energy, transport and food and the impact of each on issues concerning clean air, water quality and health. Out of a whopping 306 categories addressed, 79% were positive for wellbeing.
With fantastic health changes also come money-saving benefits. Energy efficient homes are much more affordable to run and will reduce levels of fuel poverty which currently affect millions of households across the country.
It seems that embracing a greener lifestyle is a step in the right direction for the UK. With the support of housing associations, the construction industry and local authorities, London is committed to transforming existing housing to a much more sustainable level. As promises are being made with every change that occurs, achieving net zero will only happen by reworking the energy efficiency of the UK’s current housing stock.
As responsible custodians of the Sloane Stanley estate, we are committed to preserving the distinct heritage and character of the area while also strengthening our diverse and engaged community. Through the support of creative entrepreneurship and social initiatives, our focus is instilling positive and meaningful long-term impact.