The University is seconding a staff member from the BRE,formerly known as the Building Research Establishment, to inform and help promote the mainstream use of renewable building materials by the construction industry as part of measures to deliver lower carbon buildings.
Andrew Sutton, from BRE, is based in the University’s Innovation Centre, which has provided six month’s office space, enabling the establishment of a new BRE office in the South West.
Professor Pete Walker, Director of the BRE Centre for Innovative Construction Materials in the Department of Architecture & Civil Engineering, was awarded this incoming Knowledge Transfer Fellowship for one year. This will enable him to transfer his renewable materials research outputs effectively to the construction industry via BRE Ltd who provide expert advice on achieving better buildings, communities and businesses. The project will include industry surveys, workshops and conferences and publication of guidance documents.
The construction industry is under pressure to meet the Code for Sustainable Homes (2007) set by Government but the sector needs more information about the uses and performance of renewable building materials, such as hemp-lime and natural fibre insulation materials. This project aims to provide state-of-the-art knowledge developed through various research projects, including the construction and monitoring of BaleHaus, an innovative two-storey prefabricated straw bale house.
Professor Walker said: “I am delighted to be working with Andy and BRE Ltd over the next 12 months to transfer and implement our research findings and develop increased uptake of renewable building material usage.”
Jon Hunt, Head of Research Development & Collaborations added: “I’m pleased that this project has been funded in an area of such high impact potential, as well as building upon our relationship with BRE. Energy & the Environment is a core strength of the University of Bath, enhanced through this award.”
Further information contact: Dr Denise Cooke, KTA Project Manager, d.cooke@bath.ac.uk, x 3622