Planning Portal launch sustainability content hub

At Planning Portal, we are committed to promoting sustainable practices within the built environment sector.

We know we provide a service that is integral to national planning and building, and therefore recognise the pivotal role we can play in mitigating the environmental impact of our industries and fostering sustainable practices wherever possible. Our company mission puts sustainability at its heart – by digitising planning and building control processes over the last six years, our efforts have significantly contributed to reducing waste in the early stages of projects.

However, construction and demolition processes contribute significantly to national carbon emissions, with approximately 40% of the UK’s emissions linked to the built environment – according to a 2022 report by the UK government.

Together, we want to play a bigger role in addressing national environmental concerns. With this in mind, we are thrilled to announce the launch of our Sustainability Hub, designed to be a comprehensive hub for the tailored, simplified guidance homeowners or professionals need when looking to plan or build sustainably.

We recognise that the abundance of information available on sustainable practices can be overwhelming. That’s why we have committed to alleviating that burden by distilling essential sustainability insights into practical, user-friendly guidance. Our aim is to simplify legislation, saving you time and therefore easing your adoption of sustainable solutions. In this new section, you can expect to find:

• Funding guidance: A comprehensive walk-through of all the funding which is currently available from the UK government to assist with sustainable planning and building measures, including grants to support small projects such as the Green Deal, Boiler Upgrade Scheme, and Home Upgrade Grant.
• Legislation guides: Detailed information on evolving issues such as Biodiversity Net Gain and Nutrient Neutrality, helping developers and applicants navigate regulatory changes. These guides summarise updates, clarify affected parties, and provide links to essential legislation and further resources.
• Project advice: Explanation of planning rules and permitted development limits with a renewed focus on sustainability, as well as detailed guidance on practical sustainability considerations for all kinds of projects.
• Key concepts explained: Detailed guidance around key sustainability concepts relevant for planning and building, such as retrofitting and embodied carbon.
• Energy saving: Tips on energy saving and home energy generation.

With government setting ambitious targets for England to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, it’s imperative that our industry acts swiftly to address sustainability concerns. The introduction and implementation of Biodiversity Net Gain legislation this year is a step in the right direction, but there is much more work to be done.

Our Sustainability Hub will be kept continually up-to-date, so you can visit any time for the latest on national sustainability legislation, funding and associated guidance.

Regardless of the scope of your project, making sustainable choices is more achievable than you might think.

Join us on the journey towards sustainability, with awareness and action paving the path to a brighter future – visit our Sustainability Hub today.