Nick Lloyd is the Managing Director of Urbane Eco, leading sustainable builders in Bristol. Nick’s passion for traditional building began in the 70s, and sustainable construction remains central to his approach today. Nick is a member of the Green Register Steering Group.
Tom Westwood, Programme Manager and Co-Director of The Green Register met with Nick to reflect on the challenges, achievements and progress since The Green Register was first set up, 25 years ago this October. Celebrate 25 years at the opening night of our new exhibition!
- When were you first aware of the Green Register?
2006 – epiphany – exhibition at Bristol Zoo – sustainable products – Neil May – late great – health of occupants – how do I get the knowledge I need – Green Register – builder involvement heartening.
- What is the most important thing the Green Register has achieved?
Raising awareness.
- What have you learnt at a Green Register training event that you still use today?
Wall insulation, airtightness, building biology – Thomas Gartner, have built with him, fabric first specialism, able to pay.
- Who have you met through the Green Register that you’ve gone on to work with?
Numerous people! Futureproof WhatsApp group is great. Ben East, Dan Duckworth, Mike Neate, One50 studio.
- What role can the Green Register play in the sector over the coming years?
More of the same! More competitors. Once people see it then job done, but that hasn’t happened yet… Developers are all about money: they fear the cost of green products, and natural materials is still a niche market. Homes warmer and lower energy bills.
- What one development would you like to see in sustainable construction?
Wider use of Natural materials – more being made in the UK. Such as hemp from Indinature. Adaptavate, Isovit, woodfibre should be from waste, manufactured in UK. Wales and Scotland have the trees.