The UK Government has granted approval for the Rampion 2 offshore wind farm, a 1.2GW project off the Sussex coast. Slated for completion by 2030, this development will feature 90 turbines and supply clean energy to over one million homes. Rampion 2 is expected to significantly reduce the environmental impact of construction by contributing to net zero carbon goals and decarbonising the national grid—key aspects of sustainable building practices.
In a notable example of carbon footprint reduction policy, developers have officially scrapped the proposed Whitehaven coal mine in Cumbria. The withdrawal is considered a win for sustainable construction efforts and sets a precedent for future planning decisions. Campaigners highlight the decision as an important step towards whole life carbon emissions reduction and a positive signal for low-impact construction at national level.
The Alliance for Sustainable Building Products (ASBP) has announced new support for the University of York’s SHELTER project, focusing on biogenic materials in offsite housing. The study promotes the use of renewable building materials such as timber, straw, and hemp, emphasising green building materials that help lower embodied carbon across the construction sector. Findings are expected to influence future whole life carbon assessments and expand the adoption of eco-friendly construction techniques.
Willis Sustainable Fuels has selected a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) process—developed by Johnson Matthey and bp—for use in a new Teesside production plant. This signals increasing alignment of green construction efforts with industrial decarbonisation and sustainable urban development. The initiative reflects broader interest in lifecycle assessment and low carbon building solutions that support circular economy principles in infrastructure and energy systems.
RICS has released a new practical guide aimed at improving energy efficiency in existing housing, marking further progress in the retrofit sector. Advice includes strategies on insulation, ventilation, and renewable technologies to reduce energy use, aligning with sustainable design and energy-efficient buildings standards. Such measures are central to life cycle cost optimisation and whole life carbon reduction in residential construction.
New research forecasts that solar and battery storage industries will contribute £5.1 billion annually to the UK economy by 2035. The projection signals strong future growth in sustainable technologies supporting the decarbonised built environment. As the demand for renewable energy sources and sustainable construction increases, continued investment will drive innovation towards a carbon neutral construction future.
