The potential for zero emissions/energy development in China

China is rightly regarded as a country in which progress on developing sustainable and low energy solutions for building design is essential. The size of the population, the rapid urbanisation that is taking place, and the reliance on fossil fuel based energy sources, not only make this a priority for China but also for the rest of the world. The concept of zero emissions or zero energy buildings has been in existence for many years in the UK and other developed countries and more recently has evolved to larger scale examples such as the development of complete housing schemes. This model has been investigated for implementation in China. The work involved a survey of current activity both in China and elsewhere; it also involved survey of designers and potential purchasers of housing to investigate the degree of knowledge and understanding, and willingness to include sustainability issues in the design and purchasing processes. The principal findings of the research indicate that though there is a general awareness of the topic and issues, that it has so far made only limited impact; however there is a degree of untapped opportunity. Some of the key issues relate to economics, lifestyle and a need for greater understanding.