Concern far the environment is a key determinant of the future directi
on of many industries, particularly those in which energy consumption
and the emission of greenhouse gases are important factors. The role o
f the service component of an industry is particularly significant whe
n closely linked with the implementation of new technologies and pract
ices together with environmental policy or regulation. This paper is c
oncerned with the role of building services in the paradigmatic transi
tion to a more energy efficient building stock, through the adoption a
nd implementation of a range of technologies and practices to enhance
the environmental performance of buildings.