Construct Zero introduces sector RAG status to monitor progress against the sixth carbon budget

The framework was launched at COP26 in November 2021 to collect data and report on how construction is tackling the carbon challenge

The UK construction sector continues to progress on its decarbonisation commitments, according to the latest comprehensive review of its carbon reduction priorities.

In addition, the Construction Leadership Council published its sixth progress update to its CO₂nstruct Zero Performance Framework.

The framework comprises 31 metrics across nine priority areas. Each tells a story of how the sector is reducing its carbon emissions in construction activities.

There are, however, areas where progress needs to be accelerated if the buildings sector is to reach zero emissions by 2050. This is most notably on domestic retrofit where the work of the newly established National Retrofit Hub will be important.

A progressive journey

Continued progress is expected around measurement of operational and embodied carbon, with building type benchmarks for all asset classes expected to be launched by 2024. This includes ambitions to give customers low carbon choices, and allows them to reach net zero by offering low carbon design options and advice.

In addition, over 220 organisations have joined CO₂nstruct Zero as ‘business champions’ or partners, having demonstrated exceptional leadership in carbon reduction.

For example, the report showcases Bradford’s Building Supplies’ Employee Retention Scheme. The scheme offers free home energy assessments and an end-to-end retrofit plan that links to CO₂nstruct Zero Priority 4. It enables employees to understand the customer journey and advise first hand.

It also shows the Environment Agency’s ambitious scheme to reduce embodied carbon by 45 percent. This is through implementing BIM analytics and carbon workflow on a tidal barrier design to protect 13,000 homes and businesses from flooding. This area can be connected back to CO₂nstruct Zero priority 7.

The final case study from Keltbray aligns to CO₂nstruct Zero Priority 1. It outlines the benefits found in terms of fuel cost, reduced emissions, improved air quality and less noise through electrification.

They were able to trade fuel generators with Temporary Building Supply. The company supplies electric power directly from the mains on several major construction sites in London.