Consolidation of the urban fabric is seen as a means to reduce energy consumption and thus greenhouse gas emissions. However,
the relationship between high-density housing and low energy use is not automatic. Although urban consolidation can lead to
lower transport energy use, research shows that planners, designers and policy makers may not have sufficiently taken into account
built-form energy use by different housing types.
An article by Karen Wright, SGS Senior Consultant, in Environment Design Guide No. 65, November 2010 looks at the need for more research into this area, to better inform urban planning policies as well as the design of individual buildings.