The global construction sector is witnessing rapid progress towards environmental sustainability in construction, notably through the uptake of renewable energy and innovation in low carbon construction materials. Solar power installations now exceed 2.2 terawatts globally, signalling a strong shift towards integrating renewable energy into sustainable construction projects. The adoption of local solar and battery storage solutions advances the creation of net zero carbon buildings and reinforces carbon footprint reduction across the building lifecycle.
Materials recycling and the circular economy in construction are gaining prominence with advances such as the University of Leicester’s soundwave fuel cell recycling project. This approach transforms hazardous waste with forever chemicals into renewable building materials, supporting circular construction strategies and improving end-of-life reuse in construction. These steps are crucial for reducing the environmental impact of construction and achieving ambitious resource efficiency in construction, a key aspect of lifecycle assessment and whole life carbon reduction.
Digital innovation remains critical. Tools like the Carbon Cost Rollup from Epicor allow construction supply chains to track and manage whole life carbon, embodied carbon, and operational carbon within products and processes. Enhanced measurement helps contractors comply with evolving regulations, perform more robust whole life carbon assessment, and meet increasing client demand for low embodied carbon materials. Quantifying the carbon footprint of construction is fundamental to life cycle cost optimisation and sustainable building practices.
Water management technologies are also advancing. IDE Technologies continues its leadership in sustainable building design with efficient water treatment and desalination systems, helping projects address regulatory requirements and minimise environmental impact. Improved access to these solutions can play a vital role in supporting eco-design for buildings and sustainable urban development, particularly in water-stressed regions.
Renewed focus on net zero whole life carbon and decarbonising the built environment is shaping the industry’s direction. Integration of renewable building materials, green building products, and sustainable material specification in construction projects is increasing. These developments underline the essential role of sustainable design, low carbon building practices, and green infrastructure in achieving a resilient, sustainable built environment for the future.
