OLYMPIC DELIVERY AUTHORITY, SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY

23 January 2007

Attending the launch of the ODA’s Sustainable Development Strategy, the Construction Products Association welcomed the principals of the Strategy, but expressed concern that some important aspects will not deliver the sustainability objectives that all those involved hoped to see achieved.

Speaking after the launch, Michael Ankers, Chief Executive of the Association said; “We strongly support the principles behind this Strategy, especially the focus on the environmental and socially responsible sourcing of construction materials; the target to minimise waste; and the importance attached to the sustainable transport of materials to the site.

‘There are, however, some aspects of the Strategy that cause us concern. In particular, whilst the Association encourages the re-use and re-cycling of materials, setting a specific target measured by the value of the material will not necessarily deliver the sustainability objectives that are desired and will be extremely difficult to implement.

Looking to the future, Mr Ankers said, ‘This Strategy is key to delivering the Legacy which is such an important part of the Olympics Project. The manufacturers and suppliers of construction products will be responsible for almost 50% of the value of the projects, and therefore have an important part to play in delivering the Strategy. We have been very encouraged by the willingness of the ODA and its Delivery Partner to engage with companies in our industry at an early stage in the process and we remain confident that this will ensure the objectives in this Strategy are delivered on the ground.’