The event ‘Sustainable Buildings in 2030’ which took place at Cambridge University this week, has demonstrated the important role that sustainable buildings have to play in reducing CO2 emissions in the retail sector.
Speaking at the event, Sir Terry Leahy demonstrated that building zero carbon stores was a key factor in Tesco’s drive to become a zero carbon business by 2050. The first of these stores was at Ramsey in Cambridgeshire which, as well as using natural ventilation, natural lighting and natural refrigeration gas, also generates its own energy using biofuels. The excess electricity generated is actually exported back to the grid which, as Leahy comments, “in effect makes the store carbon negative”.
Leahy also said: “The developed west needs to achieve a reduction in carbon emissions of 60%-80% by 2050 – this means that pretty much everything has to become zero carbon. Tesco has a crucial role to play in tackling climate change and we intend to lead by example.
“Conservation of resources is not only good for the environment it is also good business management. In one year alone Tesco reduced its emissions by 20% and saved £150 million.”
Breathing Buildings were consultants on Tesco’s Ramsey store review and have been involved with buildings for both Asda and Hammersons.
Managing director, Dr Shaun Fitzgerald, highlighted the need for retail developers to work together to reduce carbon emissions. He said: “Tesco’s Ramsey store has shown how a zero carbon supermarket can also win customer approval, having received great customer feedback. With the typical lifespan of a supermarket being 30 years, we need to ensure that we are developing sustainable retail buildings now if we are to achieve a global target of a 50%-80% reduction in carbon emissions by 2050.”
The event also highlighted the important role lighting and ventilation could play in creating sustainable buildings. Fitzgerald said: “Whilst it is important to get new build projects right, retro-fits and refurbishments provide a fantastic opportunity for retailers to reduce the carbon footprint of an existing building.”
