Environment and Pollution Flashcards
What are the key provisions of the Climate Change Act 2008?
A legally binding commitment to cut emissions of greenhouse gasses by at least 34% by 2020 and by 80% by 2050 compared with 1990 levels
2019 update: UK to achieve a 68% percent reduction by 2030 and net zero by 2050
Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations
To protect nature conservation areas such as wetland sites, Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas.
The regulations also protect certain species and the areas where they are known to live. This includes the Great Crested Newt, as well as all species of bat, Hazel Dormouse, otter, Smooth Snake and Sand Lizard, which are known as European Protected Species (EPS).
What are the requirements of the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations 2007?
EPC’s required for all commercial buildings over 50sq.m
- When newly built, sold, or let for a period of more than 6 months
- When newly refurbished and heating, air conditioning or ventilation has been altered
- The sale or lease of residential buildings and refurbishment schemes are included
What are the key provisions of the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards 2015 (MEES) and dates for implementation?
The Minimum Energy Efficiency Regulations 2015 made it unlawful to let residential or commercial properties with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of ‘F’ or ‘G’ (i.e. the lowest 2 grades of energy efficiency).
For new commercial or residential leases from April 2018
For all existing commercial leases from April 2023
What are the penalties for non-compliance with MEES?
Where breach less than 3 months - up to £5,000 or if greater 10% or rateable value up to £50,000
Where breach is greater than 3 month - up to 10,00 or 20% of rateable value up to £150,000
Are there any properties exempt from MEES?
Listed buildings, those with no heating, religious buildings, temporary buildings and buildings due to be demolished
Where tenancy is less than 6 months.
Where it is not possible to improve the EPC rating to an E or above with a payback period for the improvement works of 7 years or sooner. Must obtain three quotes.
What are the potential future changes being considered to MEES?
The UK government has undertaken a consultation and indicated that the minimum MEES threshold will rise from an E rating to C by 2027 and to a B by 2030.
What information is typically included in an EPC certificate?
Address and floor area
EPC certificate reference number
Technical information on the properties energy provision
Estimation of energy running costs
An energy performance rating from A+ to G
Benchmarking information
How long is an EPC valid for?
10 years unless the building is altered.
