Applying best practice to create sustainable timber solutions for homes across Wales
On Friday 27th September 2024 at 2pm during the AECB annual conference in The National Self Build & Renovation Centre in Swindon, audiences enjoyed a joint presentation from Dr Diana Waldron, Head of Built Environment for Woodknowledge Wales, and Richard Hawking, Technical Innovations Manager from SO Modular.
Diana’s contribution included a short ‘show and tell’ session demonstrating the use of Building Performance Evaluation (BPE) equipment and promoting BPE in Retrofit.
“The conference was a great success with over 150 delegates this year, and we have already started to receive plenty of positive feedback. Your [Woodknowledge Wales’] contribution played a significant role in the success of the event and it was a privilege to have you involved. Your breakout session went down really well – it has featured heavily in our feedback,” wrote Michelle Youngs, Events, Communications & Marketing, AECB
About the Home-Grown Homes for Retrofit Optimised Retrofit Program (ORP3)
Working in collaboration with industry, community groups and Local Authorities, Woodknowledge Wales (WKW) works to assist the construction industry in it’s approach to retrofit by advocating for sustainable practices and the use of natural materials. The aim is to transform existing housing into ‘Beyond Net Zero’ liveable homes, as part of UK Research and Innovation’s (UKRI) Green Transition Ecosystem awards.
Current retrofitting methods heavily depend on synthetic materials like plastics and foam insulation, which can result in high embodied carbon emissions that overshadow the carbon savings from energy reductions. WKW addresses this by working with partners like SO Modular to bring innovative timber-based solutions into the retrofit sector, significantly reducing carbon footprints.
Through its collaboration with the GW4 Climate Alliance, WKW is involved in developing an Optimised Retrofit Program (ORP3) with Welsh housing associations. Part of the wider Home-Grown Homes project, this program integrates sustainable approaches into retrofitting existing homes, with a key emphasis on natural, renewable materials like wood and wood-fibre insulation, which can provide both environmental and health benefits. SO Modular, a company specialising in timber frame construction, aligns with these values, offering sustainable timber solutions that prioritise speed, eco-friendliness, and reduced embodied carbon in retrofitting and new builds alike.
Woodknowledge Wales emphasises community engagement in the retrofit process. By involving occupants early on, the project fosters positive responses to retrofit initiatives, ensuring that changes made are beneficial and well-received. This staged approach includes evaluating opportunities to use natural materials based on performance results, further enhancing the sustainability of retrofit efforts.
Download the full presentation here.
If you wish to find out more about our Building Performance Evaluation (BPE) services, please contact Dr Diana Waldron.
