JLL calls on UK Government to set binding targets in Environment Bill

 JLL has signed an open letter addressed to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Rt Hon Philip Hammond MP, asking for the upcoming Environment Bill to provide a foundation for economic growth that is restorative and regenerative by design. 

The letter, signed by a number of built environment businesses, urges the UK Government to set legally binding targets within the Environment Bill that will help to achieve environmental objectives including tackling biodiversity loss, improving water and air quality and cutting down resource use and waste.

The letter was coordinated by UK Green Building Council (UKGBC), an industry-led charity dedicated to improving sustainability in the built environment, in collaboration with environmental coalition, Greener UK. 

Julie Hirigoyen, UKGBC Chief Executive said: “This letter from a prominent group of built environment businesses calls on the Chancellor to recognise that the Environment Bill is instrumental in ensuring a healthy prosperous economy in future. Our members stand ready to deliver the new homes and places that the country needs in such a way that limits their adverse impact on the environment and begins to reverse the environmental decline evidenced by past trends.”

“These businesses are showing leadership by calling for legally binding targets for the achievement of environmental objectives. This will give the construction and property sector the confidence and certainty we need to help drive nature’s recovery.”

Emma Hoskyn, UK head of Sustainability, JLL, commented: “We are more aware than ever before of the potentially destructive effects of constructing and operating buildings that don’t support protection of the environment. Through our Building a Better Tomorrow strategy, we are committed to improving the sustainability of the UK’s built environment, and as BITC Waste to Wealth champions, we are actively promoting the better use of the world’s resources. 

“While there is momentum amongst leading property companies to improve the environmental performance of their buildings, to really make a difference, the UK Government needs to do more. Setting out legal requirements will ensure the industry addresses fundamental problems and works towards meeting the environmental objectives that are imperative for a more sustainable built environment.”