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Dept of the Environment Transport and the Regions

Answer

Mr. Gummer: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (1) if he will require house builders to certify the source of the timber used in the construction of their houses; [131696] (2) if he will introduce regulations requiring house builders to use wood from sustainable sources, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. [131695] Mr. Raynsford: The Department has no plans at this time to introduce additional regulation on house builders requiring them to use of wood from certified sustainable sources. However, the use of timber from sustainable sources is an integral part of our overall strategy for sustainable construction. Rather than regulate, we are seeking to change attitudes through collaboration and education. Through the Construction Research and Innovation Programme, the Department supports the development of a range of tools and guidance, such as BRE's Environmental Estimating Design software (ENVEST) and Environmental Assessment Methodology (BREEAM). These are aimed at helping clients and designers to identify more sustainable approaches to the supply and use of all construction materials.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

354 c386W; 131696;131695

Session

1999-00

Subjects

Construction Housing Environment protection Materials Sustainable development Timber

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk