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.
- Passive solar energy
- Situating a building and using natural techniques to provide energy. Key techniques include daylighting, south-facing windows, natural shading and ventilation, and building materials that absorb heat from the sun and slowly release it.
- Peak oil
- The peak is the point at which oil demand will exceed supply currently estimated to occur in 15 years time. Some industry estimates suggest oil wells will run dry in 37 to 42 years time.
- Planning Policy Statement 1: Delivering Sustainable Development (PPS1)
- PPS1 sets out the government's overarching planning policies on the delivery of sustainable development through the planning system. This PPS replaces Planning Policy Guidance Note 1, General Policies and Principles, published in February 1997.
- Planning Policy Statement 22: Renewable energy (PPS22)
- This sets out the government's planning policies for renewable energy, which planning authorities should have regard to when preparing local development documents and when taking planning decisions.
- Polluter Pays Principle
The principle that the cost of controlling environmental pollution should be borne by the polluter rather than imposed on society as a whole.