Before 2050, the construction industry must undergo a profound transformation to meet agreed emissions targets. As one of the most polluting industries in the UK, there is a greater onus on construction firms and contractors to do more.
According to RedSky, construction software experts, the answer could be in digital solutions and technologies. From enhancing energy efficiency across your supply chain to monitoring waste reduction, digital solutions are helping firms stay ahead of the timeline and in front of the competition.
Addressing the Challenge of Carbon Emissions in Construction
The UK government announced an initiative to reduce at least 100% of greenhouse gases by 2050 compared to 1990. As the industry is responsible for around 23% of air pollution, construction firms, contractors and subcontractors are being asked to account for their carbon emissions.
Under new rules, those who wish to compete for government tenders worth more than £5 million p/a in value must pledge their commitment to net zero targets. Essentially, construction companies with a forward-thinking approach to waste reduction, responsible material sourcing, and who recognise the urgency required in reducing carbon emissions are more likely to win more business.
Changing the Game of Sustainability: Digital Solutions
Keeping up with new legalisation and ensuring compliance with sustainability requirements can seem challenging but technology is changing all that.
- Optimising the Supply Chain
Thanks to Supply Chain Management digital platforms, it’s now easier for construction firms to review, investigate and optimise their supply chain. Construction businesses can utilise contractors that align with their carbon reduction ethos and that make conscious decisions to be less polluting. Energy-focused contractors may become more in demand among suppliers due to this development.
- Enhancing Energy Efficiency
In line with building regulations around fuel conservation, new builds must be considered throughout their lifecycle, not just early-planning stages to completion. With this knowledge, construction firms can make more tactful decisions on smart building systems and IoT (Internet of Things) integration. Even after a build has been finalised, residents can enjoy a home that ensures optimal energy efficiency and prime opportunities to monitor energy.
- Reducing Waste, From Water to Materials
Alongside data collection and KPIs, construction firms can utilise digital platforms to help monitor material purchases and usage. Unfortunately, the industry is responsible for 50% of the UK’s landfill and 40% of drinking water pollution, meaning there must be a greater commitment to monitoring waste levels. Digital platforms aid firms looking to keep track of material use, performance and price, allowing them to compare and select the most appropriate choice.
- Accounting for Existing Carbon
There’s no need for disparate spreadsheets and reports, easily keep track of existing carbon emissions in a centralised location, easily set targets and produce performance reports on how your company is progressing. Every day, construction firms are making conscious choices to use more sustainable materials, reduce water waste and select contractors with a forward-thinking approach to carbon reduction.
- Modular Construction
Off-site construction is known to speed up certain building projects, especially those with tighter deadlines. For high-rise buildings, such as flats, offices and hotels, modular construction can offer greater energy efficiency. Produced off-site, they reduce construction time, foot traffic on building sites and overall project waste.
- Planning, Development & Design
Architects, engineers and surveyors now have the ability to produce detailed 3D models of structures and buildings , thanks to the implementation of BIM (Building Information Modelling) and StreamBIM software. As well as allowing visualisations of design, it simulates the construction processes. Effectively, early-stage planners can optimise material use, reducing wasted materials and emissions.
How Will Digital Solutions Support the Future of Construction?
The UK construction industry is taking significant steps to reduce its carbon footprint through digital solutions. These technologies are revolutionising the way buildings are designed, constructed, and operated, leading to improved energy efficiency, reduced waste, and lower carbon emissions.
Moreover, the stark contrast between the carbon footprint of old-build and new-build homes highlights the positive impact of sustainability innovations. As the construction sector continues to embrace digital solutions, it moves closer to achieving the UK’s ambitious net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
