Schneider Electric has launched a multi-year initiative to create an AI-native ecosystem for advancing sustainability and energy management across the construction sector. The growing adoption of digital transformation in energy-efficient buildings highlights the rising influence of automation, data-driven decision-making, and AI in achieving operational carbon reductions, optimising resource efficiency in construction, and lowering the carbon footprint of construction projects. Integrating AI into lifecycle assessment supports more accurate whole life carbon assessment, strengthens sustainability management, and assists stakeholders in meeting net zero whole life carbon targets.
New construction materials continue to drive industry innovation, notably with NIPPON KINZOKU introducing NK-301ZF, a high-strength, high-ductility stainless steel suited to sustainable construction. These low embodied carbon materials are crucial for eco-friendly construction, as building lifecycle performance is significantly improved by enhanced durability and reduced resource consumption. Sustainable material specification and the use of advanced green building materials support whole life carbon reduction and enable longer-lasting, low carbon building solutions.
Supply chain transparency in construction is increasingly valued, with data-driven management enabling detailed tracking of the environmental impact of construction materials through their full lifecycle. This transparency is key for effective whole life carbon assessment, lifecycle assessment, and improving accountability in sustainable building practices. Detailed supply chain data also helps reduce embodied carbon in materials, supports environmental product declarations (EPDs), and encourages circular economy in construction, which minimises waste and promotes the end-of-life reuse in construction materials.
The battery recycling market is forecast to expand rapidly from 2025 to 2030, spurred by the increased demand for renewable energy storage solutions within both commercial and residential buildings. Enhanced recycling aligns with circular economy goals, facilitating closed-loop supply chains, supporting the transition to net zero carbon buildings, and contributing to sustainable urban development. Efficient resource recovery from batteries is also integral to life cycle thinking in construction and decarbonising the built environment.
UK small businesses are seeking greater support for their net zero transition, citing cost concerns as a potential barrier despite strong motivation revealed in recent surveys. As key contributors to local supply chains and the broader built environment, their engagement is essential for sustainable building design, low carbon construction materials uptake, and net zero carbon progress in construction.
Global investment in sustainability innovation continues to gather momentum, demonstrated by recent funding announcements from companies such as Newmont and Mitsui Chemicals. Investment in sustainable design, eco-design for buildings, and circular construction strategies accelerates the development of renewable building materials and greener infrastructure. Such efforts enhance environmental sustainability in construction and drive the sector towards carbon neutral construction goals worldwide.
