Sustainable construction is advancing with the updated SKArating for Offices environmental assessment scheme, now open for public consultation. This development highlights the sector’s growing focus on whole life carbon and whole life carbon assessments, as fit-outs and refurbishments aim for measurable environmental sustainability in construction. The emphasis is on reducing embodied carbon in materials and improving lifecycle assessment for better green construction outcomes. Stakeholder collaboration is guiding sustainable building design to ensure buildings operate with lower operational carbon throughout their lifecycle.
A new report from Edie and Reconomy addresses circular economy in construction, showing how resource efficiency in construction and innovative waste management solutions can support circular construction strategies. Responsible material sourcing along with end-of-life reuse in construction feature as key elements in the transition to a more circular economy. These strategies help construction companies reduce the carbon footprint of construction and embrace eco-design for buildings while specifying low embodied carbon materials.
Transport for London’s forthcoming policy on electric vehicle congestion charges signals an important shift towards net zero carbon buildings and net zero whole life carbon targets within urban environments. This policy will require the construction sector to reconsider low-impact construction transport options, further promoting energy-efficient buildings and low carbon design throughout urban development projects. Logistics planning in construction is set to evolve, supporting the move to carbon neutral construction and reduced emissions.
Green and sustainable finance continues to play a significant role in resilience for construction firms, as S&P reports a steady appetite for sustainable bonds and green building products. Access to green finance is critical for companies aiming to invest in sustainable building practices and accelerate the transition to low carbon building and green infrastructure. Financial support makes it easier for organisations to implement life cycle thinking in construction projects and reach decarbonising the built environment targets.
Research from the UK underlines the power of engaging community stakeholders in designing eco-friendly construction solutions and tackling plastic use. By incorporating community-led decision-making into sustainable material specification and environmental product declarations (EPDs), firms can better manage the environmental impact of construction and support sustainable urban development. Progress in chemical recycling is also opening up opportunities for sourcing renewable building materials and recycled content, helping to close the loop and reduce the carbon footprint of the sector.
