The Prime Minister’s announcement that the UK Government will set a target of cutting carbon emissions by 78% by 2035 is welcome news in tackling climate change, but the Government must lead a campaign to green our homes to make this possible, said the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “The Prime Minister’s target to cut carbon emissions by 78% by 2035 will help accelerate the UK’s transition to a low carbon economy, but the building industry needs a National Retrofit Strategy to have the confidence it needs to invest in greening our homes. Our homes use 35% of the UK’s total energy usage and emit 20% of carbon dioxide emissions. Net Zero will only be possible with a long-term plan to green our homes.”

Berry concluded: “With the Green Homes Grant Scheme stopped prematurely in its tracks, it is essential that the forthcoming Heat and Building Strategy be ambitious, long-term and comprehensive in its plan to upgrade our housing stock. This will help position the UK as a global leader in tackling climate change ahead of COP26.”