NW CA cover:Layout 1 - North Norfolk District Council

North Walsham Conservation Area Character Appraisal and Management PlanAppendix 2: SustainabilityEnvironmental Sustainability is an issue which is growing in importance in relation to thebuilt environment. Buildings have a significant impact on the environment, from theirconstruction throughout their useful life to their eventual demolition. A large proportion ofenergy is used to heat and power buildings, which contributes to emissions of greenhousegases, and the construction sector is globally one of the largest users of energy and producersof waste.In many ways sustainability, as with conservation, is best achieved by early planning. Carefulconsideration of the materials to be used and the design of new development can greatlyreduce impact on the environment. For example, maximising passive solar gain or providingshelter from prevailing winds can reduce heating needs thus using less energy. Choice ofmaterials can also help reduce energy requirements, for instance high levels of insulationcan ensure that buildings require less energy to heat, but also prevent excess heating insummer.There are many measures to improve sustainability which also meet objectives relating toconservation. An example of this is the use of traditional materials and construction methods.These can result in high levels of sustainability, by using renewable resources like timber orlow-embodied-energy materials such as lime, instead of synthetic materials such as plasticand concrete. The same is true for the re-use of buildings which both conserves traditionalarchitecture as well as reducing the need for new-build structures. The use of locally sourcedmaterials is another example, which helps to reinforce local distinctiveness, but also requiresless fuel to transport materials over long distances.Sticking to simple principles like using high quality materials can meet requirements for bothsustainability and conservation, as they are more durable; require replacing less often, aremore energy efficient and often more aesthetically pleasing.For more detailed information on the issues relating to sustainability and the built environmentconsult the North Norfolk Design Guide.North Norfolk District Council81