Tritax Symmetry, the dedicated logistics developer of Tritax Big Box REIT plc, announces its intent for all new developments within its portfolio to be constructed to net zero carbon in construction in line with the UK Green Building Council’s (UKGBC) Net Zero Carbon Buildings Framework.
The news comes after an intensive 12-month study, working with parent company Tritax Big Box REIT (TBBR), to assess how net zero carbon in construction could be achieved. Environmental consultant Scott Hughes undertook a study which evaluated the whole life carbon of a typical logistics development blueprint, assessing the areas of highest embodied carbon and opportunities to reduce these.
Scott Hughes will continue to review alternative products and processes with Tritax Symmetry, and also provide ongoing measurement of the embodied carbon in our new developments.
From July 2020 the Group will mitigate the embodied carbon generated from its development programme by funding high-quality, accredited and verified offset schemes. The offset scheme selected is in line with the current principles set out in UKGBC’s net zero framework.
The Group will continue to maintain a minimum of BREEAM ‘Very Good’ on all new buildings, as well as proactively working with customers towards achieving net zero carbon in operational use. In line with our development standards we will continue to promote the inclusion of renewable and cost-efficient design features such as LED lighting and solar photovoltaics, with the aim of achieving an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of ‘A’.
Speaking about its commitment, Kevin Theobold, Head of Construction at Tritax Symmetry, commented: “This is a watershed moment for our business, and it is great to see the roll-out of this initiative which we have been working on for over 12 months.
“As a Gold Leaf Member of the UKGBC, we are fully aware of our responsibility to achieve net zero carbon and we have worked closely to agree the measurement of embodied carbon in construction in line with their framework definition for net zero carbon. This announcement is the first of many steps; in addition to carbon offset from day one, we will be carrying out continued research with our trusted consultants and construction supply chain to further reduce embodied carbon in construction.”
This commitment is part of Tritax Big Box’s broader sustainability strategy which also includes a pledge to achieve net zero carbon across the whole Group, to enhance nature and wellbeing, as well as create a positive socio-economic impact in all the local communities in which the Group’s assets are located.
Helen Drury, Tritax Big Box’s Sustainability Lead, continued: “The property sector has a significant role to play in reducing carbon emissions and aiming for net zero carbon in construction is a meaningful first step. As part of our broader sustainability ambitions, this commitment is central to delivering our customers’ future proof, best in class logistics space that’s resilient to climate change and ensure that we also create a lasting social and economic impact within the communities we operate.”