An estimated 50% of all primary energy consumption & carbon dioxide emissions are linked to the construction & operation of buildings. The built environment therefore represents both a key challenge & a key opportunity in the drive to meet Scotland’s low carbon targets.

Given that 80% of current housing & 60-70% of commercial buildings will still be standing in 2050, does the Scottish building sector really have the support it needs to meet its low-carbon challenges?

Key issues will be debated by our Expert Panel:

David Stewart, Head of Policy, SFHA

Scottish Futures Trust

Final speakers to be announced shortly.

Our panellists will lead the discussion followed by audience Q&A. 

Read more about the forum and
view the delegate list

Topics to be discussed include:

• ​How well prepared is the construction industry in Scotland for the low carbon agenda?
• What are the challenges facing the industry?
• Much of the rhetoric around the challenges of retrofitting focuses on the domestic housing market – what will be the impact of new regulations on the commercial sector?
• What are the main challenges in identifying and accessing funding & is the system too reliant on grants which may prioritise easier-to-treat properties?

Do the skills exist to enable targets to be met, particularly in the renewables sector?
With a new research centre being opened to promote R&D, how effectively is the need for innovation being promoted to SMEs & developers?