The UK Government faces growing pressure to close key policy gaps in heavy industry decarbonisation, as nearly half of industrial emissions risk being excluded from net zero carbon planning. The Association for Decentralised Energy warns that current strategies lack the scale needed to support low carbon building and industrial transformation. High electricity costs and delays in grid connection pose further barriers to developing energy-efficient buildings and decarbonised manufacturing. Businesses urge stronger policy measures as a new 10-year Industrial Strategy is being drafted.
A public consultation led by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs seeks to reform the UK’s environmental permitting system. The proposed changes aim to simplify project approvals tied to water, waste and flood risk management. These reforms are intended to reduce administrative delays and encourage eco-friendly construction and infrastructure delivery. Faster permitting processes may help accelerate Whole Life Carbon Assessment and sustainable building practices across the construction sector.
International negotiations continue on a global levy system for shipping emissions, with financial penalties proposed for vessels failing to meet decarbonisation goals. Small island states advocate for strict emissions limits due to high climate risk, while consensus is still forming on implementation details. These measures could affect the environmental impact of construction through higher costs for imported green building materials and broader global supply chain shifts.
An investigation by the BBC has uncovered serious allegations of fraud involving hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) diesel, a low-carbon fuel commonly used in construction. Questions about the integrity of HVO certification raise doubts over claims of carbon footprint reduction in heavy machinery and construction logistics. The case highlights the need for lifecycle assessment standards and more transparent Whole Life Carbon accounting in sustainable construction supply chains.
B Lab has launched a significant update to its B Corp certification, introducing stricter standards across key impact areas such as governance, environment and supply chains. These revisions are expected to influence manufacturers and service providers connected to sustainable architecture and green construction. The update supports businesses aiming to demonstrate leadership in Circular Economy practices and long-term Life Cycle Cost benefits.
The UK's Advertising Standards Authority has banned a social media advert by TotalEnergies, citing misleading claims about its renewable energy investments. The ruling serves as a warning to construction-related brands about the consequences of overstating sustainability achievements. Transparent communication is essential for building trust and maintaining credibility in promoting environmental sustainability in construction.
