Exploring the benefits of using natural and recycled materials for construction and retrofit of houses
25 June 2014 | 14.00 | Cork Centre for Architectural Education
We all want to combat climate change by promoting energy efficiency. But just how energy efficient are the products that we are using for this purpose? The NEES (Natural Energy Efficiency and Sustainability) Project believes that it is possible to save more energy and reduce the carbon foot-print of house construction and retrofit if we look at the Life Cycle of materials and buildings and not just their use-phase. The NEES European Sustainable Energy Week Seminar will explore this question, as well as looking at Best Practices in natural products and services that enhance energy efficiency and originate from the Northern Periphery of Europe.
NEES is a partnership of 8 universities, research agencies and social enterprises that began in 2011 and will continue until May 2014. During this time it will identify, document and promote at least 15 best practices in use of natural and recycled materials and technical and training services that support the use of these products. It will also develop up to 5 pilot projects in partner regions that demonstrate use of these products and services. These will be presented at the Cork EUSEW Seminar.
Minka McInerny, Retrofit Officer from the London Borough of Haringey, will present recent ground-breaking research comparing the Life Cycle energy impact of buildings made with natural materials and those made from high-tech chemical and engineered “energy efficient” materials.
The Seminar also will hear from the NEES delegation (University of Ulster and Glasgow Caledonian University) that gave evidence to a high-powered UK Parliamentary group examining emerging issues on the planning, design, construction, management and maintenance of the built environment.
For more information, registration and an agenda, contact me at:
Jose Ospina
Project Manager
NEES Project
Tel (+353) 28 21890
Mobile (+353) 86 8224429
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
www.neesonline.org
Or see more information on the European Sustainable Energy Week web site.