As daunting as how to tackle 40% GHGe is, best practice architectural design research strongly suggests that were we to fully reconsider what types of construction methods and materials genuinely do and could offer best overall building performance, it would be entirely feasible that collectively we could significantly impact GHG emissions and energy use. And in the process significantly positively impact multiple sectors.

Ultimately investment in and specification of natural fibre and sustainable construction and insulation materials for use in all existing and new domestic and commercial projects would offer the UK the fastest most effective means of significantly reducing GHGe impact in short, medium and long term respects.

Natural fibre construction materials such as hemp, miscanthus, wood fibre, straw, jute, flax, sisal and sheep's wool all offer exceptional insulation and indoor climate management performance way above that of more common go-to and petrochemical alternatives in almost every conceivable above ground construction build-up scenario.

Natural fibre construction materials properties

And in the case of hemp and miscanthus for example, with unique crop rotation and natural soil enrichment properties, and requiring virtually no pesticides or fertilisers, such crops could also help revolutionise UK farming and food production.

More astounding perhaps than such a vision being perfectly possible, such a vision is entirely achievable without need for any kind of technological revolution.