EU brick tax ruling will secure UK jobs

Architects have welcomed an EU decision that will see the UK brick industry remain exempt from a potentially crippling carbon tax.

Last week the European Commissions Climate Change Committee voted to allow baked clay construction products to continue to operate without having to “buy” as much of the carbon they use in production.

It was feared the tax, which would affect heavy clay industries such as brick, roof tile and clay drainage pipe manufacturers, would have seen UK manufacturers become uncompetitive and unable to afford to invest in the future of their business.

BDP architect director Alan Davies said: “Whilst the process of brick making may consume energy and produce carbon emissions, their products are unique, robust and survive for centuries.

“Traditional craft producers like the handmade brick manufacturers have an important contribution to make to a sustainable future. They need support to survive and adapt.”

Rick Burgess, partner at housing specialist PRP, added: “It’s good news for British brick manufacturing companies and distributors. The supply of bricks from within the UK will allow architects to respect the local vernacular.

“Using British bricks also reduces the carbon footprint of projects, which assists our industry to meet government targets.”

Martin Warner, chief executive of Hampshire-based brick manufacturer Michelmersh, which supplied the specialist brickwork for the revamp of St Pancras station in London, admitted the decision was a “relief”.

Meanwhile, manufacturers, including Ibstock Brick which reduced emissions by 18% in the past decade, continue to invest in energy-efficiency improvements to ensure the process remains as green as possible.

Laura Cohen, chief executive of the British Ceramic Confederation, said the decision helped secure “about 5,000 jobs nationally”.
Source BD Online