Researchers in Denmark are developing a new type of bio-cement that could transform sustainable construction. Made with living bacteria, the material repairs cracks while offering potential for energy storage within building structures. This approach could contribute to net zero Whole Life Carbon targets by reducing Embodied Carbon in materials and enhancing the carbon footprint of construction. Such renewable building materials demonstrate how eco-design for buildings is aligning with sustainable building practices to close the gap between energy efficiency and Material Durability.
In Scotland, Mosaic Architecture + Design has delivered a project that reshapes Glasgow’s historic Teacher building into serviced apartments. This adaptive reuse significantly cuts Embodied Carbon by preserving existing structures rather than using new low carbon construction materials at scale. The project highlights how sustainable building design and sustainable architecture can integrate cultural heritage with resource efficiency in construction while contributing to Whole Life Carbon reduction. It serves as a clear example of Circular Economy in construction and sustainable urban development.
Attention on Whole Life Carbon Assessment and lifecycle assessment continues to grow as industry leaders seek to demonstrate carbon neutral construction. Transformations of existing buildings provide measurable benefit through lower Life Cycle Costing compared with new developments. This reinforces the importance of life cycle thinking in construction and building lifecycle performance as practical tools for sustainable building practices. End-of-life reuse in construction and circular construction strategies are becoming central to sustaining net zero carbon buildings.
Global supply chain transparency is advancing with new technologies that track the origin of materials such as lithium used in energy-efficient buildings. Such verification supports environmental product declarations (EPDs) and sustainable material specification by ensuring low Embodied Carbon materials truly support decarbonising the built environment. This has long-term impact on the environmental sustainability in construction by lowering the carbon footprint and securing more consistent use of green building products.
While progress is evident, policy decisions such as the expansion of UK airport capacity raise concerns about the environmental impact of construction. Expansion projects increase pressure on efforts towards low carbon design, low carbon building strategies and carbon footprint reduction. These tensions highlight the importance of green infrastructure, Circular Economy strategies, and strict sustainable design standards such as BREEAM and BREEAM v7 in guiding sustainable construction globally.
The path to carbon neutral construction depends on innovation, consistent Whole Life Carbon Assessment and adoption of sustainable building practices. Whether through adaptive reuse, renewable building materials or low-impact construction, the industry is demonstrating viable pathways for environmental sustainability in construction. Achieving net zero Whole Life Carbon will require continuous collaboration, integration of sustainable building design and transparent measurement to shape the future of green construction.
