Glasgow-based manufacturer Munro has secured £2 million to expand production of its all-electric 4x4 vehicles, signalling a deeper shift toward low carbon design and eco-friendly construction methods across heavy-duty sectors. Although designed for mining and defence, these EVs align strongly with the push to cut the carbon footprint of construction, particularly in off‑road and infrastructure projects. Their £17 million order backlog underscores market demand for sustainable construction technologies that reduce reliance on diesel machinery. Integrating electric utility vehicles into site operations also supports whole life carbon reduction strategies within broader decarbonising the built environment commitments.

Research into chemical recycling byproducts is opening new opportunities for low embodied carbon materials. A carbon-rich residue known as char, once confined to rubber applications, is gaining traction as a potential component in green building materials. Material scientists believe that using char as an additive could improve durability while reducing the environmental impact of construction products. Its potential integration into flooring, sealants, and composites supports circular economy in construction principles, strengthening links between resource efficiency in construction and the next generation of sustainable building practices. The material’s life cycle credentials also make it an emerging candidate for embodied carbon reduction in both commercial and residential projects.

The Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP) has introduced the UK’s first accredited training in carbon accounting, addressing urgent industry needs for accurate whole life carbon assessment and transparent reporting frameworks. This initiative is likely to advance the level of environmental sustainability in construction by equipping professionals with the skills to integrate lifecycle assessment and life cycle cost analysis into project decision‑making. For developers committed to net zero whole life carbon targets, stronger certification pathways reinforce accountability across design, supply, and operation stages, embedding life cycle thinking in construction at every scale.

Wood-product manufacturer West Fraser has turned focus towards enhancing awareness of the sustainable properties of its CaberMDF range. By emphasising durability and waste minimisation, the company highlights sustainable material specification and the role of existing product lines in achieving low-impact construction outcomes. The approach reflects the sector’s preference for transparent environmental product declarations (EPDs) and measurable performance rather than purely promotional claims. Such product stewardship contributes to achieving higher BREEAM and BREEAM V7 ratings, supporting green building products strategies already used widely in sustainable building design and eco-design for buildings.

Energy infrastructure developments are also reinforcing the framework for net zero carbon buildings. A new power purchase agreement by Ecotricity will deliver hourly matched renewable electricity to major UK venues, illustrating a growing emphasis on precise energy tracking. This model may soon become a blueprint for energy-efficient buildings in both commercial and residential sectors. As supply chains electrify, with initiatives such as Tesco’s 1,000th electric delivery van, logistics networks increasingly align with carbon neutral construction goals. Collectively these steps advance green infrastructure, reduce embodied emissions, and integrate practical pathways towards sustainable urban development within the global shift to sustainability across the construction industry.