The UK has confirmed £1bn backing for the country’s largest battery energy storage system at Thorpe Marsh, capable of powering over 785,000 homes. Large-scale energy storage is becoming central to sustainable construction within energy infrastructure, supporting the transition to net zero Whole Life Carbon. Alongside this, Jones Bros has been appointed to deliver another BESS facility in Newport, reinforcing the role of low carbon design in modern green infrastructure projects addressing the carbon footprint of construction.
In Manchester, Sir Robert McAlpine has been appointed to lead the construction of a large wellness complex. The design incorporates energy-efficient buildings principles, eco-design for buildings, and a focus on Embodied Carbon in materials. This urban project underlines how sustainable building design is moving into mainstream developments, where environmental sustainability in construction is a core driver even for luxury spaces.
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has launched the first global standard for responsible AI use in construction and surveying. By setting parameters for safe and transparent use of digital tools, this initiative enables more accurate Whole Life Carbon Assessment, lifecycle assessment, and improved building lifecycle performance. AI adoption in the built environment supports sustainable design decisions and Life Cycle Cost optimisation at a time when the industry faces pressure to accelerate delivery of net zero carbon buildings.
Hydrogen innovation is expanding into the construction sector. Ecotricity’s push into low carbon construction materials and renewable energy integration highlights the potential of hydrogen to decarbonise heavy industry retrofits and off-grid eco-friendly construction. While still early stage, such advances may become part of Circular Economy strategies that help reduce the environmental impact of construction.
The European Parliament has enacted new rules to curb textile and food waste across supply chains. These regulations strengthen Circular Economy in construction by promoting resource efficiency in construction, reuse of materials, and end-of-life reuse in construction. Broader adoption of sustainable building practices aligned with circular economy policies is improving sustainable urban development models across Europe and beyond.
Public sentiment is shifting significantly toward stronger environmental commitments. Research shows widespread support in the UK for deeper climate action, with expectations that industries adopt sustainable construction and carbon neutral construction approaches. This trend points to growing demand for carbon footprint reduction, green construction, and sustainable building practices as stakeholders insist on measurable sustainability outcomes throughout the entire building lifecycle.
