<b>New Building Regulations and European standards are requiring a radical rethink in the way homes are insulated. Allison Heller finds suppliers generally positive about the changes, recognising that it is all for a good cause: the environment</b><br><b>Talk of the Earth Summit in Johannesburg has faded from the news agenda, and terms such as &amp;“environmental sustainability&amp;” and &amp;“energy efficiency&amp;” arguably remain on the fringes of what many housebuilders consider to be real and important business considerations. Insulation however, is one aspect of housing that is inextricably bound to these issues, and recent amendments to Part L of the Building Regulations are rooted in the sustainability agenda.</b><br><b>An Insulation for Sustainability guide, recently published by engineer and energy consultant XCO2 conisbee, explains the simple connection. Houses represent around 60% of the largest energy-using sector in the EU - buildings. And of the energy used, 40-60% is for heating. Reducing energy use and related CO2 emissions involves considerations not only about the thermal insulation materials, but associated glazing and air tightness to minimise heat loss, combined with a suitable ventilation system to minimise condensation.</b><br>By now housebuilders are well versed in the requirement contained in Approved Documents L1 and L2 of the Building Regs for …