Birmingham eco homes project leads way in bid to cut carbon emissions – but humans must play their part

A year-long study into the activity of people living in a development of low carbon homes has concluded that human lifestyles must adapt alongside the building technology in order to meet ambitious emissions targets. 

A report published by Birmingham City University (BCU) has revealed that the development of 12 family homes in Handsworth, built by Midland Heart Housing Association and the Building Alliance, can operate with as much as a 70% reduction in carbon emissions when compared to similar houses with gas heating.

The improvements were achieved by increasing insulation, improving window specification, increasing the levels of airtightness, employing enhanced ventilation techniques and installing heat pumps and photovoltaic systems to help negate rising energy costs…