Retrofitting existing homes is emerging as a critical strategy in sustainable construction, with a new guide highlighting practical measures to enhance energy efficiency in older buildings. Emphasis is placed on improved insulation, heat pump installation and adopting low-carbon heating systems. These steps align with net zero whole life carbon goals and highlight the importance of decarbonising the built environment through low carbon design and sustainable building practices, particularly where demolition is not viable.
Major commercial operators are advancing energy resilience with modular off-grid systems. Trinity Energy and Costco have introduced decentralised installations aimed at lowering operational emissions in retail and logistics facilities. These systems indicate a shift towards low carbon building solutions and green construction strategies that improve the whole life carbon performance of commercial properties, supporting environmental sustainability in construction and the wider transition to net zero carbon buildings.
The integration of EV charging infrastructure by Extra MSA into existing service stations reflects the growing intersection between sustainable design and civil engineering. Scaling such energy-efficient installations requires careful planning across lifecycle phases and exemplifies life cycle thinking in construction. The integration supports both life cycle cost benefits and the broader push for sustainable urban development, without compromising the operational efficiency of existing assets.
A recent study challenges the prevailing belief that new mineral extraction is necessary to meet clean energy demands. Findings suggest current stockpiles could suffice if managed through resource efficiency in construction and circular economy in construction principles. The implications are significant for sourcing in sustainable material specification, as the industry faces pressure to deploy low embodied carbon materials while maintaining performance and durability.
Concerns over the environmental impact of digital infrastructure have re-emerged, with tech platforms criticised for enabling fossil fuel operations via AI. In construction, these discussions intersect with the digitisation of sustainable building design, where AI tools influence everything from eco-design for buildings to whole life carbon assessment. Transparent use of digital systems is becoming essential for accountability in carbon footprint reduction strategies.
Urban resilience is under scrutiny as European cities outperform London in adapting built environments to extreme heat. Techniques such as reflective surfaces, permeable pavements and shaded public realms are integral to green infrastructure and sustainable architecture. These approaches are reshaping design norms, ensuring buildings meet both environmental product declarations (EPDs) and building lifecycle performance standards, as heat adaptation becomes a regulatory requirement.
