The British brick industry is at risk of collapse due to current Net Zero carbon standards that underestimate the longevity of bricks. Experts argue that bricks, typically lasting well over 60 years, are being misrepresented as high carbon materials, potentially driving builders to choose alternatives with larger carbon footprints.
The think tank Create Streets highlights that the 60-year lifespan benchmark is not only arbitrary but fundamentally flawed. This miscalculation could lead to a significant decline in brick usage, threatening the livelihoods of nearly 8,000 workers and the £1.3 billion industry.
As the UK moves towards stricter carbon assessments, the reliance on outdated standards could have immediate repercussions. Builders under economic pressure may avoid using bricks, fearing project delays or rejections, which could further diminish domestic production capabilities.
If the industry loses its production capacity, the consequences could be irreversible. Experts warn that once kilns close and expertise is lost, restarting production will be a daunting challenge, jeopardising the future of a material that has been a cornerstone of British construction for centuries.
Source: GB News
