A Liverpool housebuilder that has already vowed to make its business net zero carbon is now taking steps to eliminate plastic from its supply chain. Tony McDonough reports

Liverpool housebuilder Hassett Homes is joining forces with an environmental not-for-profit organisation in a drive to eliminate plastic from its operations.

Hassett Homes, founded by managing director Jamie Blennerhassett, said earlier this year that its aim was to become a net zero carbon developer. And it is now working with Changing Streams CIC with a view to cutting out plastic.

Changing Streams was established by well known Liverpool fit-out entrepreneur Neal Maxwell in 2018, along with the University of Liverpool. It aims to reduce the use of plastics in buildings and throughout the built environment supply chain.

The construction sector is the world’s second largest user of plastic packaging and generates 50,000 tonnes of plastic waste a year in the UK alone. Hassett Homes, which plans to convert a Victorian mansion in Liverpool into apartments, is determined to be as sustainable as possible.

“We’re already a long way toward achieving our commitment to create carbon zero homes but there’s some work to do to drive out plastic usage in our materials choices and supply chain practices,” said Jamie Blennerhassett.

“Changing Streams’ vision completely aligns with our own philosophy and is a clear reason why together we can make change happen and get real results. I see this as a positive step forward in achieving our purpose to create lasting harmony between the built and natural environments.

“Small changes in the way we think, feel and act today will have a big impact on the way we live tomorrow.”

His company is on track to roll out its latest zero-carbon homes shortly, and Hassett Homes believes it will set the standard for how homes and places will be created in the future.

Changing Streams founder Neal Maxwell added: “This is an important moment for us. I’m looking forward to building on our work together and moving towards ever-closer engagement with the University through projects and other initiatives that will enable home-buyers to live more sustainable lives.

“To date a lot of egos have stood in the way of progress and people like Jamie are the future of the house-building industry.  We’re looking forward to the relationship developing as we work closer together.”