Holcim’s new ‘NextGen Growth 2030’ strategy places sustainable construction at the forefront of its goals, with a focus on decarbonising the built environment through ambitious reductions in embodied carbon and embodied carbon in materials. This move comes alongside the company’s North America unit listing and mirrors growing trends toward net zero carbon buildings in the global building materials sector. The plan emphasises whole life carbon and whole life carbon assessment, reflecting heightened regulatory and client demand for low carbon design and carbon neutral construction throughout the construction lifecycle.
Innovative UK startups are making breakthroughs in low carbon construction materials. Biozeroc Ltd leads with carbon-negative solutions using BioConcrete, which eliminates the carbon footprint of construction associated with traditional Portland cement. The Lime Place is promoting sustainable building design with breathable materials tailored for conservation and contemporary eco-friendly construction, underlining how sustainable material specification and green building materials can advance environmental sustainability in construction.
Digital tools and automation are reshaping sustainable building practices. Emidat’s automated environmental product declarations (EPDs) enable accurate tracking of embodied carbon, contributing to lifecycle assessment and reliable building lifecycle performance. Firstplanit’s platform assists professionals in balancing operational carbon reduction, resource efficiency in construction, and product health benefits, supporting eco-design for buildings and enabling life cycle cost analysis for more sustainable design.
Circular economy principles are being integrated into construction, encouraging end-of-life reuse in construction and circular construction strategies. The adoption of reusable glass partitioning systems and creation of sustainability resource hubs, such as the new Pallas Textiles landing page, are helping specifiers embrace circular economy in construction and clarify the environmental impact of construction products for a lower overall carbon footprint.
Despite ongoing supply chain disruptions, climate events, and material shortages, these developments highlight a decisive industry shift towards net zero whole life carbon, green construction, and sustainable urban development globally. Regulatory pressure, technological innovation, and increased awareness are accelerating the adoption of low embodied carbon materials, renewable building materials, and sustainable architecture, marking a clear transition to a more resilient and sustainable built environment worldwide.
