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In what has been described as a massive shift in public opinion, a Mori poll commissioned by Sponge demonstrated for the first time an overwhelming consumer demand for high performance environmentally friendly homes.
The new Sponge report, Eco Chic or Eco Geek, shows that homeowners are prepared to pay more to live in a sustainable home. 92% of those surveyed are keen to see sustainability features offered on new homes, while 64% said these should be compulsory.
Speaking at the launch of the report, housing and planning minister Yvette Cooper MP said: "This survey shows that more and more people want to see action in their own home to tackle climate change."
“A quarter of all our carbon emissions are from our homes. That is why it is so important for all new homes to be zero carbon within ten years, and why home buyers should be entitled to proper energy efficiency ratings on existing homes as well.”
The report showed that men are more likely than women to know about energy saving and energy generation in the home (35% compared with 14%), while are better on reducing household waste.
Sponge director, Sonny Masero, said, “We are delighted and impressed by the clear swing in consumer expectations towards much higher environmental standards. Now house builders must respond quickly to catch up with consumer demand and offer more market choice.”
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