The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) has announced that it is working with British Glass to research the impact that glass and glazing has on making buildings more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. The research aims to demonstrate how glass types perform in buildings, which could inform whether the UK government better engages businesses within the glass and glazing industry in future, when it comes to organising energy efficient and zero-carbon initiatives or policies. The report is expected to be finalised in the coming months.
John Agnew, GGF Group’s managing director, said that the GGF had been working more closely with British Glass “for a few years”, and that this latest collaboration cemented a strong working relationship. Dave Dalton, chief executive of British Glass, echoed this sentiment, adding: “It’s essential for the industry to collaborate, to amplify our voice to government for the benefit of the sector.”
Aligned to the research, the GGF will also survey other trade bodies in the glass, glazing and fenestration sectors, to explore concerns and find common ground. In doing so, the GGF hopes to present the importance of energy efficient glass and glazing, in a move that it hopes will improve existing and new building stock, while making a valuable contribution to reducing carbon emissions.
James Lee, the GGF’s director of external affairs, explained: “Working with wider industry bodies is hugely beneficial for the GGF, as they provide live forums to share information and to find out how other sectors are coping with the challenges facing the broader construction industry. Our regular meetings with the Construction Products Association, the National Home Improvement Council, the British Energy Efficiency Federation and the Construction Leadership Council, focus on helping the wider environment by engaging with government on how our sector can reduce carbon emissions and achieve the net zero targets.”
John concluded that: “Since 1977, when trade associations from all sides of the industry came together to form the GGF, the federation has continuously worked with other trade organisations to advance the interests of members, and, in many cases, for the betterment of the entire industry. Our industry collaborations are imperative to increasing our voice and progress, our shared objectives for the benefit of all in the industry and the consumer.”
A presentation focussed on the sector’s actions to achieve net zero will take place at the GGF’s annual conference, GGF Members’ Day, on 22 September. This event is to be held online.
