glossary
Welcome to our glossary of useful terms and expressions related to sustainability in the m&e sector.
You can search for definitions and explanations using our alphabetical links below or simply by scrolling through.
We hope you find these helpful and you will see as you navigate other pages on the site that each time a glossary term occurs there is a live link to its definition here.
Please contact the site editor Ewen Rose if there are other subjects you think we should include.
- EcoHomes
- The BREEAM method used for assessing residential buildings
- EcoHomesXB
- Developed by BRE in conjunction with the Housing Corporation, to allow stock holders of existing housing to assess and monitor the environmental performance of their stock.
- Emission standard
- The maximum amount of a pollutant that is allowed to be discharged from a polluting source such as a motor vehicle or chimney stack.
- Emissions
- A term used as shorthand to describe the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere through combustion. Gases, liquids and solids that are discharged into the air, water or earth.
- Energy Efficiency Commitment (EEC)
- Formerly known as Energy Efficiency Standards of Performance (EESoP) is an obligation placed on all domestic energy suppliers to achieve a specified energy saving target through the installation of energy efficiency measures in homes across the UK. At least 50% of the benefits are focused on disadvantaged households. A similar scheme (Energy Efficiency Levy) operates in Northern Ireland.
- Energy from Waste
- Energy derived from waste, such as the use of methane collected from landfill sites and energy from waste incinerators.
- Energy performance of buildings directive (EPBD)
A European directive designed to improve the energy efficiency of buildings in Europe.
The requirements of the EPBD have been enshrined in the latest approved documents of Building Regulations Part F (Ventilation) and Part L (Conservation of fuel and power) for England and Wales.
- Energy Saving Trust (EST)
- An independent not-for-profit organisation set up and largely funded by the government to manage a number of programmes to improve energy efficiency, particularly in the domestic sector.
- Energy services company (ESCO)
- A company that supplies energy services to customers. Such services can include power and fuel supply, energy efficiency measures and energy audits.
- Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA)
- Tax rebate scheme administered by the Carbon Trust allowing end users to offset 100% of the cost of low energy, water conservation and low carbon equipment against tax in the year it is purchased. Qualifying products are assessed and appear on the Trust's Energy Technology List.
- Environmental impact
- Any change to the environment, whether adverse or beneficial, wholly or partially resulting from an organisation's activities, products or services.