Enhancing Sustainability in the UK Construction Sector
Enhancing Sustainability in the UK Construction Sector
As the world grapples with the escalating climate crisis, the role of Sustainability Managers has never been more critical. The construction industry, in particular, plays a significant part in this narrative due to its substantial environmental footprint. Recognising the urgency, the UK construction sector is increasingly focused on enhancing its sustainability profile. This article explores how Sustainability Managers can steer the industry towards a greener future through carbon reduction, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), sustainability, sustainable development, and corporate reporting.
The Environmental Impact of the Construction Sector
The built environment accounts for about a third of the UK's total carbon emissions, making the construction sector a crucial player in the country's sustainability journey. These emissions are categorised into operational and embodied carbon. The former refers to emissions generated during a building's operational lifetime, while the latter encompasses emissions linked to construction processes and materials throughout a building's lifecycle.
Historically, the industry's primary focus has been on minimising operational carbon by improving energy efficiency. Nonetheless, recent research highlights an upward trend in embodied carbon, necessitating a shift towards addressing both sides of the carbon equation.
The towns and cities we’ve built account for a whopping third of the UK’s total carbon emissions, making the construction sector a crucial part of our country’s journey towards sustainability. Why is this the case? During a buildings’ operational lifespan it emits operational carbon. But the problem doesn’t start there. Massive amounts of embodied carbon is emitted during the construction process and through the materials we use to build.
Construction has historically focused on minimising operational carbon by improving energy efficiency. But since recent research highlights an upward trend in embodied carbon, there needs to be a shift in focus.
The Role of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC)
Increasingly, the industry is exploring Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), such as off-site manufacturing, as a potential tool for improving its sustainability credentials. MMC involves techniques that maximise the use of manufacturing in construction processes. Off-Site Manufacturing (OSM), a form of MMC, involves manufacturing certain project components off-site, which are then delivered to the construction site for incorporation into the project. The environmental benefits of MMC encompass reduced energy use on-site, decreased waste, and limited traffic movements.
However, not all MMC technologies are created equal. Some may not necessarily lead to carbon reductions on all projects, and in some instances, they could result in an increase in embodied carbon. Therefore, a careful analysis of the project's specific requirements and the potential carbon impact of the chosen MMC is essential.
Unfortunately not all MMC technologies are created equal. Some don’t lead to carbon reductions on all types of projects. In some cases, they can actually result in increased embodied carbon. This is why a careful analysis of the project’s specific requirements and potential carbon impact are key.
Five Strategies for Sustainability Managers in the Construction Sector
1. Optimise Temporary On-Site Offices
Sustainability Managers must ensure energy efficiency in temporary on-site offices, often overlooked during a project. These cabins often lack basic measures such as proper insulation or LED lighting. Therefore, implementing these simple yet effective solutions can lead to substantial energy savings.
Sustainability Managers must ensure energy efficiency in temporary on-site offices, which are often overlooked. These cabins often lack basic measures such as proper insulation or LED lighting. Implementing these simple, yet effective, solutions can lead to substantial energy savings.
2. Minimise Transportation-Related Emissions
Transport is another significant source of emissions during the construction phase. Reducing these emissions can be achieved by sourcing materials locally and using consolidation centres to decrease the number of journeys required.
Transport is a significant source of carbon emissions during construction. Sourcing materials locally and using consolidation centres will decrease transport time, fuel costs and emissions.[DK5]
3. Reduce Waste
The construction industry generates a significant amount of waste. To combat this, Sustainability Managers can encourage the recycling of materials and coordinate with other organisations to utilise left-over materials.
Setting sustainability targets and evaluating performance against them can motivate staff to follow green initiatives. Engaging with rating schemes such as the Civil Engineering Environmental Quality Assessment and Award Scheme (CEEQUAL) or the Building Research Establishment Environmental Method (BREEAM) can enhance an organisation's green credentials.
Working with suppliers that prioritise sustainable practices can ensure that everyone involved in a project is operating in an environmentally-friendly manner. Reviewing potential suppliers' environmental policies can help select those that align with the company's sustainability goals.
The Role of Sustainability Managers in Driving Change
The journey towards a greener construction sector necessitates the pivotal role of Sustainability Managers. They are the catalysts driving change from within, guiding their organisations and the industry at large towards sustainable practices. Through their leadership and strategic planning, Sustainability Managers can help the construction sector navigate the complexities of sustainable development and achieve its green objectives.
How Sustainability Managers Can Drive Change
Sustainability Managers are a vital part of the mission for a greener construction sector. They drive change from within, guiding their organisations (and the industry) towards sustainable practices. Through strong leadership and strategic planning, Sustainability Managers can help the construction sector navigate the complexities of sustainable development and achieve its green objectives.
The journey to sustainability is a complex one, fraught with challenges. However, with the right strategies, the right people, and the right mindset, the construction industry can transform these challenges into opportunities. This transformation will not only contribute to the industry's sustainability goals but will also pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future for us all.
The journey to sustainability is a complex one, fraught with challenges. However, with the right mindset, the best people and innovative strategies, the construction industry can transform these challenges into opportunities. Sustainability Managers can play a crucial role in guiding the construction industry towards a greener future that benefits us all.
