BU568 Low-impact homes (2014)

Low-impact construction for new dwellings minimises use of non-renewable resources while using renewable resources to their best advantage over the building's lifetime, adopts technologies and processes for local conditions, reduces construction and in-use waste and is resilient to adverse conditions and changes in use.

This bulletin gives an overview of the key elements and benefits of low-impact design and construction and replaces Bulletin 446 Sustainable construction.

The bulletin covers:

• site selection
• design and specification, including climate-responsive design, insulation, thermal mass, appliances, on-site renewable electricity generation, rainwater collection and indoor moisture management
• construction
• maintenance and resource use
• deconstruction/salvage.