The UK construction industry faces renewed scrutiny over environmental sustainability in construction following warnings from the UK Environmental Watchdog. Concerns centre on the new Planning and Infrastructure Bill, with experts saying possible changes could weaken nature protection and set back national biodiversity targets. This debate comes as the industry is under increased pressure to prioritise life cycle thinking in construction, especially as sustainable building practices become vital in maintaining progress towards net zero carbon and balancing built development with nature.
Industry collaboration was a key focus at the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF). Leading professional bodies—including RICS, RTPI, RIBA, and ICE—committed to accelerating action on sustainable building design and climate resilience. There is a move to adopt stronger whole life carbon assessment practices and integrate sustainable material specification in every stage of the project, supporting the drive for decarbonising the built environment.
A significant technological breakthrough was announced as Wood Group secured a major contract for the development of a €1.5 billion plant that will use renewable energy and methanol, instead of fossil fuels, to produce plastics. This could mark a shift towards low embodied carbon materials and promote greener supply chains, supporting the adoption of low carbon construction materials and paving the way for commercial uptake of renewable building materials in global construction.
Political uncertainty now clouds the path to decarbonising the UK’s built environment. With growing support for climate-sceptic parties, questions surround the continuity and ambition of low carbon policy, though the nation remains committed to net zero whole life carbon by 2050. The industry must keep a focus on carbon footprint reduction and eco-design for buildings despite changing policy landscapes.
Extreme heat and climate change are testing energy-efficient buildings and the resilience of infrastructure. The potential for power grid failures due to hotter summers is pushing architects and engineers to factor climate risks into sustainable design. The importance of lifecycle assessment and building lifecycle performance is highlighted as the sector adapts building envelopes and systems for both operational carbon reduction and greater climate resilience.
Businesses are driving supply chain transparency and resource efficiency in construction. Initiatives such as integration with TrusTrace emphasise the importance of sustainable and traceable sourcing in construction materials. Greater focus on water efficiency and sustainable urban development reflects broad recognition of the need for a circular economy in construction and comprehensive response to the environmental impact of construction across all project phases.
