Barratt Development first major national builder to have science-based carbon reduction targets approved

Barratt Developments - currently building more than 8,000 South West homes - has become the first major national builder to have its science-based carbon emissions targets officially approved.

The company, which owns Barratt and David Wilson Homes, is working on developments including Canalside at Wichelstowe.

It says it took the lead for the housebuilding industry back in February by announcing its commitment to reduce direct carbon emissions by 29 percent by 2025 and to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions in its own operations by 2040.

These targets have now been approved by the steering committee of the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi).

The SBTi commended Barratt on its 1.5°C-aligned target, currently the most ambitious designation available through the SBTi process.

Ian Menham, West regional director for Barratt Developments, said: "We are proud to be building 8,000 new homes across the South West and are committed to playing our part in the UK's green recovery, so we're delighted that our science-based targets have been approved. 

"We believe every business needs to take responsibility to tackle climate change and we will continue to work with all our stakeholders to safeguard the environment." 

The housebuilder will reduce its direct carbon emissions from its business operations - its offices and building sites - by 29 percent by 2025.

To achieve these ambitious targets on site, Barratt will cut its direct emissions by first focusing on reducing diesel use in generators, vehicles and plant machinery.

Barratt will also cut its indirect carbon emissions - those coming from its homes and from its supply chain - by 24 percent per square metre by 2030. Building lower-carbon homes and using more sustainable materials will be a key part of achieving this target.

In June, Barratt announced that it would achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions in its own operations by 2040 - becoming the first major housebuilder to make this commitment.

It will also deliver new zero carbon standard house types from 2030 and ensure that 100% of the electricity that it purchases will be renewable by 2025.