More Needs to be Done to Reach Net Zero, a National Survey Reveals

New ‘Spotlight On... Carbon Reduction’ Launched

Climate change has become one of the single largest threats to our planet and has dominated our headlines for decades; it is the defining issue of a generation. As one of the UK and Ireland’s major industries, construction makes a significant contribution to our carbon footprint.

According to a recent Considerate Constructors Scheme survey:

• Over 90% of respondents believe there is an issue with the amount of CO2 emissions produced by the industry
• 83% of respondents believe the industry also has the potential to significantly reduce its CO2 emissions
• 60% feel that the sector is not doing enough to tackle CO2 emissions.

Many governments have declared a climate emergency, with more than 70 countries including the UK and Ireland, pledging their commitment to reach net zero by 2050 as part of the landmark Paris Agreement. With energy consumption and carbon (CO2) emissions in the construction industry reaching an all-time high, generating 40 - 50 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, how is the sector adapting to meet these legally binding targets?

To help address this crucial industry issue, the Considerate Constructors Scheme has launched a new ‘Spotlight on… carbon reduction’ toolkit. In this toolkit, we ask what net zero means for the industry and outline practical guidance to support your journey to decarbonise your activities. This toolkit is comprised of useful information, examples of best practice, as well as case studies from a variety of contractors.