Incentives needed for eco-improvements

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by Kay Mitchell

According to a study by Norwich and Peterborough Building Society (N&P), many Britons are in favour of the Government’s aims for cutting carbon but are deterred by the cost of these environmental improvements.

Research shows that nearly 90% of Brits support the Government’s proposals towards a zero-carbon culture but 19% said that they would not add green features to their own property. Of these, 46% said that the cost of green technology was the main reason that they are not prepared to improve their own homes.

Richard Lloyd, managing director of surveyors Hockleys Professional, said it’s great that the Government is taking steps to reduce the UK’s carbon dioxide emissions but action needs to be taken to encourage homeowners to go green.

Mr Lloyd added that people are quite happy to support the Government’s commitment to zero-carbon homes but they’re not so keen to make a difference to their own homes.

The government recently promised to make all new homes zero-carbon by 2016.

To promote eco-building, N&P is launching its annual Eco Self-Build competition, which offers a prize of £5,000 for the best self-build home which makes a positive impact on the environment.

It is hoped that the winner will inspire others to improve their own homes said Richard Lloyd, who is one of the judges in the competition.