A new EU directive, aimed at improving sustainability, will introduce greater recycling regulations in Ireland.

The EU policy will affect many within the construction trade, including architects.

Designers will have to evaluate the sustainability of products utilised. As well as assessing the recyclability of structures, materials and waste, which are produced on demolition sites.

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The new regulations will also cover the usage of sustainable natural resources, which could lead to major changes in the way buildings are designed, in order to ensure new rules are met.

The plans form part of the Construction Products Regulations, drafted by the European Commission. The final draft is due to be published this week.

The regulations will also introduce a standardised EU common language to describe products' performance and characteristics.

It is expected the full legislation will be implemented through Building Regulations. Should the laws receive ascent, they will be implemented by 2011.

The new laws will replace the current Construction Products Directive.

(PR/JM)