As part of this , our very own COO , Victoria Brocklesby , explains how essential prioritising sustainability is to the future of the sector . Although it is a subject that has been on the agenda for years , it has never been enough of a priority for significant improvements to be made .

It can be argued that any progress that was being made stalled because of the events of the last two years . Brexit , a global pandemic , and a war have all played their part in the economic uncertainty many are feeling at the moment , and for the ongoing price rises and supply shortages . However , this change can ’ t be ignored . Consumer priorities are evolving at an unprecedented rate , with sustainability now playing a significant part of the buying process . With this in mind , companies need to adapt or risk being left behind .

It isn ’ t just consumers either . Commercial organisations are increasingly making changes as part of their CSR programmes , including the offices they rent and suppliers they work with .

As building standards come into force over the coming months , this will become increasingly important . It starts with the Part L changes in June , before legislation demands that all new homes must be carbon neutral ready by 2025 .

Knowing where to start is key . As the most tangible part of housebuilding , switching out non-sustainable materials is a great starting point . Our Partners choose us because we use high-grade aluminium for all our products . It has high-performance qualities , as well as a minimal impact on the environment , especially when compared to its uPVC and timber alternatives . It isn ’ t just about whether a product is recyclable at

the end of its life though , it is about the entire manufacturing process . We do more than just ensure the recyclability of our products , we also recycle the scrap aluminium we use , helping other industries reduce their carbon footprint , and we divert all waste from landfill . Aluminium is also the lighter option when compared to other materials , so it uses less emissions to transport .

As well as materials , the entire supply chain should be considered . Our Partners are in the unique position of being able to suggest their preferred systems to any customer , from a homeowner to a developer . This can in turn help them to reach their sustainability goals . On the surface , materials are a major consideration , but under the surface is where

responsibility starts with how and where we source components and extends all the way to where they end _up

you can uncover real sustainability initiatives . Homeowners are no longer considering their options on a product-to-product basis , they are instead looking at the broader picture , considering a supplier ’ s environmental credentials , culture , and ethos .

At Origin , we have strict processes in place to ensure we are as environmentally friendly as possible . We use a rigorous tender process to assess the sustainability and ethical credentials of a new supplier , providing us with the evidence we need to choose the right one . This includes

considering how they are reducing energy usage and emissions , as well as their resource intensity and waste management strategies . This way , we know that they are preventing pollution and encouraging waste minimisation , reuse , recovery , and recycling wherever they can .

We have also worked hard to achieve the environmental management ISO14001 accreditation , demonstrating how committed we are to doing the right thing .

In this industry , responsibility starts with how and where we source components

and extends all the way to where they end up . The same is true for installers .

There is still a long way to go . The construction industry is far from being fully sustainable , but these changes can ’ t be put off any longer , even if it seems like there are more important issues to focus on . Sustainability is going to be important for years to come , so now is the best time to get started on making changes , before you get left behind .

To find out more about sustainability in construction and to read the full Homebuilder ’ s Insight Report , download it at https :// origin-global . com / documents / h omebuilders-insightreport . pdf