Tailwinds and crosswinds in innovating construction practices

Innovation in construction is a continuous journey. Celebrating successes and sharing learnings, both good and bad, are crucial. Rachel Blake, environmental manager at Brian Perry Civil, shared the momentum and challenges that the construction industry faces in its efforts to decarbonise. 

In the ever-evolving landscape of construction, innovation is not just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. The industry is committed to ambitious carbon reduction targets, aiming to cut emissions significantly by 2030. This commitment and the ambition to meet client carbon reduction targets drives innovative approaches and solutions in the field. 

Tailwinds: Momentum in sustainability 

One significant stride has been in reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions, primarily from diesel. Substantial progress has been made in converting light vehicle fleets, with nearly 50% now comprising more practical and efficient vehicles and even some electric vehicles (EVs). However, the challenge remains with heavy plant and machinery, where options like hydrogen or electric alternatives are not yet widely supported. To address this, the focus is on maintaining a modern, efficient fleet and exploring biodiesel blends for certain projects 

Another area of momentum is in material specifications. Clients are increasingly open to innovative materials, such as recycled crushed concrete, now approved for use in road manufacturing. This shift not only promotes sustainability but also aligns with a broader focus on circularity, exemplified by the acquisition of companies specialising in crushing and reusing materials. 

Crosswinds: Challenges and opportunities 

Despite these advancements, challenges persist, particularly in data management and investment. Accurate carbon baselines for projects are often lacking, making it difficult to motivate construction teams. Innovative use of estimating software helps build carbon estimates from first principles, but discrepancies remain between estimated and actual measurements. 

Investment in new technologies also poses challenges. For instance, a promising zero-emissions project was deferred multiple times, resulting in lost funding and missed learning opportunities. Such setbacks highlight the need for stable project timelines and reliable funding to drive innovation. 

Celebrating success and learning from failures 

Innovation in construction is a continuous journey. Celebrating successes and sharing learnings, both good and bad, are crucial. Collaboration and clear communication of sustainability goals can unlock further innovations and drive the industry forward. 

The future of sustainable construction is exciting. By embracing innovation and overcoming challenges, the industry is paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient infrastructure landscape.