Skip to main content Skip to navigation
This section details the key issues currently facing the construction industry surrounding sustainability.
Follow the links below for more information on what each issue is, why they're important, what we are doing about them and where to go next.
The construction industry has been slow to respond to the Corporate Responsibility but increasing regulation in areas such as carbon emissions and waste are forcing companies to improve their processes and many clients are beginning to demand responsible approaches to design and construction. Read on>>
The construction industry is responsible for the intensive use of energy in the creation of buildings and infrastructure and in the operational phase, and the production of carbon dioxide and other pollutants. Read on >>
Refurbishment of the existing building stock, including heritage buildings, will be crucial if the current UK government emissions targets are to be reached. The methods used in the construction phase of refurbishment, as well as their end-use, have impacts on their sustainability. Read on>>
The construction industry produces a quarter of total waste each year of which up to 13% is delivered and unused. It produces three times more waste than all UK households combined. Read on>>
Upskilling employees, the supply chain and the local community can have a positive impact on the sustainability of a business and community, such as greater employment, job satisfaction and business productivity. Site currently under development
Social aspects are often missed out of the construction industry's considerations of sustainability despite the important effect that they have on long-term value for money and the well-being of building occupants. Read on>>
The procurement of goods, services and buildings has traditionally been based on two overriding considerations: price and quality. However, the choices people make about what they buy and how they buy it can have a huge impact on all aspects of sustainable development. Read on>>