The UK government has advanced environmental sustainability in construction by appointing the UK Deposit Management Organisation Ltd to operate the new Deposit Return Scheme. This move aims to boost recycling rates of single-use packaging, aligning with the principles of circular economy and circular economy in construction. Improved recycling of construction waste and enhanced infrastructure are expected to lower the carbon footprint of construction projects and support resource efficiency in construction.
Significant industry challenges remain. Orsted’s decision to pause the 2.4GW Hornsea 4 offshore wind farm, citing surging supply chain costs and heightened operational risk, places uncertainty on renewable energy’s role in delivering net zero whole life carbon and low carbon building targets. With large-scale renewable projects vital for decarbonising the built environment and achieving net zero carbon buildings, the renewables sector is urging government action to support domestic manufacturing and stabilise the supply chain, reflecting the need for a holistic approach to whole life carbon assessment.
Advances in recycling technology, such as Kiverco’s new recycling plant for the McKinstry Group, highlight the industry’s ongoing investment in eco-friendly construction, waste management, and sustainable building practices. These developments contribute to better lifecycle assessment and embody the principles of whole life carbon, supporting sustainable construction by reducing embodied carbon in materials and maximising end-of-life reuse in construction. At a global scale, new carbon credit schemes targeting early coal plant closures aim to accelerate the shift away from fossil fuels, indirectly supporting low carbon design and carbon neutral construction.
Policy commitments also feature strongly. The Scottish Government’s latest Programme for Government includes a £300 million investment in clean heating and energy efficiency, creating new opportunities for sustainable building design and the upgrade of both new and existing building stock. These measures aim to enhance operational carbon performance, meet stricter energy standards, and foster lasting building lifecycle performance improvements.
Financial innovation is playing a growing role, with the Green Finance Institute raising £16 million through Local Climate Bonds to fund net zero projects. This funding supports sustainable urban development, energy-efficient buildings, and the implementation of green construction materials, renewable building materials, and eco-design for buildings. As regulatory and financial frameworks evolve, the construction industry is continuing to prioritise life cycle cost management, sustainable material specification, and the transition to a low-impact construction sector capable of meeting global climate goals.
