The United Kingdom (UK) has made significant strides in advancing sustainable development across various sectors. One critical aspect contributing to this progress is the adoption of indoor climate solutions, which not only enhance comfort and productivity but also play a pivotal role in achieving sustainability goals.
Today in the next part of our weekly industry insight series Tony Croke, Product Manager for Indoor Climate Solutions in Wavin UK & Ireland, explains how Wavin’s indoor climate solutions are a combined product and service approach to dwelling new build best practice in the UK and across Europe.
The available combination of Heat interface units that connect to district or local heat networks, Underfloor heating and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, which jointly or separately can be managed through the Sentio smart control system offers a unique and efficient domestic range of new build indoor climate solution for dwelling new build or refurbishment projects.
Indoor climate solutions are instrumental in reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions associated with building operations. According to data from the UK government's Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), buildings are responsible for approximately 29% of the UK's total carbon emissions with 60% of that energy used in heating and cooling a home. By optimising heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, indoor climate solutions contribute to energy efficiency gains. For instance, a study by the UK Green Building Council found that energy-efficient HVAC systems can reduce building energy consumption by up to 30%. This translates into tangible reductions in carbon emissions, aligning with the UK's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Circular economy principles are gaining momentum in the UK, with a focus on minimising waste and maximising resource efficiency. Indoor climate solutions contribute to this objective by extending the lifespan of building materials and components. Heat interface units can be connected to sources of waste heat from manufacturing and be harvested for district heating. According to data from the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP), construction and demolition activities in the UK generate approximately 60 million tonnes of waste annually.
Indoor climate solutions have a direct impact on reducing the environmental footprint of buildings in the UK. Energy-efficient heating and ventilation systems, coupled with smart building controls, contribute to lower energy consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Data from the UK Green Building Council indicates that energy-efficient buildings can achieve energy savings of up to 50% compared to conventional buildings. Additionally, indoor climate solutions help minimise heat energy required and improves indoor air quality, further reducing environmental impact. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology found that improved ventilation and filtration systems can significantly reduce indoor air pollution levels, enhancing occupant health and well-being.
Access to comfortable and healthy indoor environments is essential for social inclusion and well-being in the UK. Indoor climate solutions play a crucial role in ensuring equitable access to safe and comfortable living and working spaces. Data from occupant satisfaction surveys conducted by organisations such as the UK Green Building Council and BRE Group indicate that buildings equipped with high-quality indoor climate solutions receive higher ratings for occupant comfort and satisfaction. Moreover, initiatives such as the Healthy Homes Act aim to improve indoor air quality standards, particularly in social housing, promoting social inclusion and addressing health disparities.
Indoor climate solutions are key drivers of sustainable development in the United Kingdom, contributing to energy efficiency, circular economy practices, environmental impact reduction, and social inclusion. Available data and research demonstrate the significant role that these solutions play in enhancing building performance, reducing carbon emissions, and improving occupant well-being. Moving forward, continued investment in indoor climate solutions and policy support will be essential to maximise their benefits and accelerate progress towards a more sustainable and inclusive built environment in the UK.
At Wavin, our purpose is to build healthy sustainable environments. Our tailored indoor climate solutions feature our market leading systems and products including underfloor heating, heat interface units, MVHR and single controls (interfacing with all of these technologies). They provide the following benefits: