The code for sustainable homes in the UK: affordability and future

UK agreed to reduce 80% of emissions by year 2050. Government therefore expects to ensure sustainable homes with emissions are available to all householders in the UK. Accordingly, new legislations are enforced to ensure that all new homes are adhered to Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH). CSH is a national standard rating system to guide the industry in having sustainable design and construction. Despite the obvious benefits such as lowered emissions and energy efficiencies, CSH indicates problems of affordability especially during current economic downturn. The paper examines the UK code for sustainable homes and evaluates benefits and challenges it has. The paper also investigates whether the sustainable homes concept along with the green construction could be affected by the economic downturn in the UK. A comprehensive literature review based on recent government reports, journal articles and books is carried out to fulfil the aim of this paper. The research findings witness the up-front cost of integral green features that needs to be used as part of the CSH hence both consumers’ and construction clients’ incapability to bear the high costs. To improve supply side, the UK government provides “green loans” and other incentive for developers and consumers. With the improvements in the demand market, CSH would lead to create more “green jobs” in the supply chain. Further, the sustainable home development will play an important role to bring prosperity in construction industry and the overall economy