An Oxford-based startup has launched an AI-powered solar system designed to capture fine dust particles on building sites. By targeting PM2.5 and PM10 pollutants with laser sensors, the technology addresses a major health and air quality issue. Adoption at scale could improve environmental sustainability in construction while reducing the carbon footprint of construction activities. Such innovations align with sustainable building practices by integrating pollution control directly into site operations.

In Finland, researchers are developing a nanoscale metasurface inspired by cloud properties to regulate building temperature without conventional systems. This approach could transform energy-efficient buildings by reducing reliance on heating and cooling, crucial for net zero carbon buildings. The early-stage technology reflects principles of eco-design for buildings and highlights the role of low carbon design in tackling Whole Life Carbon impacts. If proven viable, it has potential to lower Embodied Carbon in materials used for façade systems while strengthening sustainable architecture.

Mars has committed €1bn to overhaul its European factories with sustainability targets at the core. The investment prioritises energy efficiency, resource optimisation and carbon footprint reduction in large-scale facilities. This industrial programme provides a model of sustainable construction for manufacturers, with outcomes relevant to Life Cycle Cost planning and Whole Life Carbon Assessment. By upgrading infrastructure with sustainable building design principles, projects of this scale can influence supply chains and support the transition to net zero Whole Life Carbon.

A global Capgemini survey shows 80% of major companies plan to increase green investments while maintaining net-zero timelines. Scope 3 emissions, which include impacts from construction, remain a focus area. This reaffirms the importance of lifecycle assessment in construction projects. Organisations prioritising Embodied Carbon transparency, environmental product declarations (EPDs) and circular construction strategies are more likely to accelerate decarbonising the built environment and achieve long-term sustainability targets.

Logistics innovations are also influencing green construction trends. The introduction of all-electric haulage fleets supports carbon neutral construction by decarbonising supply chains connected to the built environment. Cleaner transport solutions complement sustainable urban development where strict air quality regulations highlight the environmental impact of construction. Such measures reinforce low-impact construction strategies and improve site-level air quality.

Planning tools are emerging to embed sustainability at local authority level. A new Transport Decarbonisation Toolkit in England supports joined-up planning that integrates construction, infrastructure and mobility. This framework strengthens sustainable building design and resource efficiency in construction by linking transport decisions with building lifecycle performance. Wider adoption can accelerate Circular Economy in construction and enable long-term carbon footprint reduction through sustainable material specification and end-of-life reuse in construction.