Is your Development Compliant with the EU Performance of Buildings Directive?

Building a Greener Future: The Compliant Way to Fence Your Residential Development

As the National Sustainability Summit reminds us this week of the opportunities arising from the Government’s recently published Climate Action Plan, let's explore the world of sustainable fencing for residential developments. As the European Union steps up its fight against climate change, the updated EU taxonomy and the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) are setting new sustainability standards for building practices, including fencing for multi-unit residential developments.

Ireland's Climate Action Plan aims to create a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future by targeting a 70% renewable electricity supply by 2030, introducing 950,000 electric vehicles, banning petrol and diesel car sales by 2030, reducing greenhouse gas emissions in agriculture, eliminating non-recyclable plastics, and retrofitting 500,000 homes with energy-efficient systems. This comprehensive plan sets over 180 actions and numerous sub-actions to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Understanding the New EU Taxonomy and EPBD Compliance

The EU taxonomy is a game-changer, laying out the rules for what's considered environmentally sustainable. For commercial and residential projects, this means meeting specific green criteria. Under the EPBD, every new building in the EU needs to be nearly zero-energy. This isn't just a minor tweak; it's a major shift in how we design and build homes.

Why Sustainable Fencing Matters

Fencing, sometimes a forgotten piece in the sustainability puzzle, plays a pivotal role in the environmental footprint of housing projects. Choosing sustainable fencing solutions not only aligns with EPBD requirements but also boosts your project's sustainability credentials.?

Three ways the Irish Fencing team are partnering with clients to create a sustainable solution:

1. Sustainably sourced materials: We use recycled materials to minimise environmental impact.
2. Durability and Maintenance: Our fences are built to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimising waste. With all our products hot-dip galvanised and over half featuring an additional powder coating finish, they boast an increased lifespan. This process enhances aesthetic appeal, adds extra protection, reduces VOC emissions, and minimises the need for repainting.
3. Innovative Designs: We offer custom fencing solutions that integrate seamlessly with eco-friendly housing projects, ensuring aesthetic harmony and functional efficiency.

Click HERE for an additional five tips on how fencing companies lead the charge in sustainable practices.

Commitment to Sustainable Practices

Adopting sustainable practices in fencing installations is crucial for modern construction projects. Ensuring products meet stringent environmental standards enhances the eco-friendly credentials of housing projects, reducing the overall carbon footprint.

Our products meet stringent environmental standards, enhancing the eco-friendly credentials of your housing projects.

• EcoMerit certified members
• Cost-Efficient Solutions: Offering fencing options that are both sustainable and economically viable allows projects to stay within budget while achieving environmental goals.

As proud members of the Supply Chain Sustainability School, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of sustainability in all our practices.

How to Ensure Your Fencing Complies with EPBD

When planning your next housing project, consider these steps to ensure that your fencing solution aligns with EPBD:

• Consult Early: Engage with our team from the start to ensure that fencing design and materials meet sustainability benchmarks.
• Verify Certifications: Ensure that all materials used are certified under recognised environmental standards.
• Plan for Longevity: Choose designs that require minimal maintenance and are built to last, thus reducing the project's overall carbon footprint.

Join Us in Pioneering Sustainable Fencing Solutions

As the National Sustainability Summit reminds us of our duty towards sustainable? practices, navigating the complexities of sustainable fencing can be daunting. Meeting stringent EU regulations and sourcing sustainably sourced? materials are just a few of the challenges. But these efforts are crucial for setting new standards in environmental responsibility and ensuring your housing projects stand out in a competitive market. Understanding these pain points, the goal is to make sustainable choices that not only comply with regulations but also enhance the overall value and appeal of your developments.

Together, let’s build a sustainable future, one fence at a time.