“Ecos is reviewing its new build programme like many building developers in the current economic climate,” commented Charles Couzens, Director. “Planned sustainable new build initiatives are being put on hold temporarily. It has been decided to focus resources on training, consultancy and refurbishment in the short term. We are only a small team so we are having to be flexible and adapt to market conditions and readjust the way we deliver to suit the present economic environment”. 

Since its inception in 2000 the charity Ecos Trust (formerly the Somerset Trust for Sustainable Development) based at Great Bow Wharf, Langport; has educated and informed thousands of building professionals and members of the public about sustainable building practices through events, training courses and consultancy. Ten years on through its subsidiary company Ecos Homes, it has successfully built and renovated award winning, nationally recognised developments at Great Bow Yard, Langport and Stawell, Nr Bridgwater. 

Ecos Homes has set sustainable building standards in the South West by building to The Code for Sustainable Homes Level 5. Ecos is recognised by councils across the country for its ground breaking sustainable developments. With the site at Stawell, Nr Bridgwater almost complete and with two of the houses already occupied, Lucy Durnan, Director of Ecos Homes says “Our building projects have provided us with a unique insight into sustainable development. We are able to impart our knowledge and skills to benefit others interested in using the latest technologies and cutting edge designs”. 

A refurbishment service was recently launched by Ecos to tackle the environmental performance in existing homes. Over one quarter of carbon dioxide emissions come from domestic housing and as 99% of housing is already built it was decided to tackle this area by providing advice to householders. Charles Couzens continues, “We aim to carry on the important job of conveying the message that sustainable building and refurbishment is better for the environment, human health and social welfare. We have achieved a considerable amount over the last 10 years and now is the time for us to take the opportunity whilst the new housing sector remains less active to re-focus our efforts on the even greater challenge of helping householders tackle low carbon living in the decades to come”.

ENDS

For more information contact:

Ecos Trust

Great Bow Wharf, Bow Street, Langport, Somerset TA10 9PN

Corina Reay This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  Tel: 01458 254349