Ambitious net-zero deadlines are on the horizon. The UK is aiming to reach 78% of 1990 carbon levels by 2035. And then net zero by 2050. This is set to be a big task for the construction industry. There have definitely been some steps in the right direction. The industry created £1.08bn of social and local economic value in 2021, a 14% increase on 2020. But there’s still a way to go.
The global built environment remains responsible for 40% of global energy-related carbon emissions. Working with local communities to generate social value is brilliant progress. But it doesn’t bring us any closer to looming net-zero targets.
Making the necessary changes will take more than a few suppliers doing the right thing. So today, we’re looking at how better industry-wide data practices could be the key to achieving net zero in construction.
Industry standards
The construction industry will need more consistent and reliable visualisation of decarbonisation efforts if it is to hit its targets. Suppliers, buyers, project managers, and anyone else involved need access to the right data. To see not only where carbon has been successfully cut but also where there are opportunities to cut it down further.
To achieve this level of visualisation, we’ll need one common approach across the industry.
There should be complete standardisation for collecting data and reporting on carbon emissions. Streamlined and simplified regulations that let suppliers know exactly what needs to be captured and reported. And exactly how to use this data to inform any future decisions. This way, everyone can start working together towards common goals, using the same expectations and processes. Hitting targets becomes much easier when everyone is pulling together in the same direction.
A joined-up approach
In the absence of strict industry standards, we often see critical data siloed off. With buyers and suppliers each using their own data and systems. But this makes it difficult to create a complete, reliable picture of the environmental impact of projects. Data is held in different places and managed by different teams and departments, making it ten times harder to get everyone informed and on the same page.
But, with industry-wide standardisation in place, we can then introduce technology to create a more joined-up approach across all suppliers and stakeholders.
Ideally, project data should be captured and organised in a central hub, with access granted to all buyers, suppliers, and other stakeholders. This way, everyone has real-time access to relevant information. Suppliers can work together more seamlessly and come together to ensure the most efficient, effective, and environmentally-friendly projects.
This kind of joined-up approach will improve transparency and decision-making for everyone involved in projects. And will make it easier for reliable, accurate data to lead the way.
Lifecycle measurement
Understanding the carbon emissions of a specific process, material, or product should involve continuous measurement throughout its lifecycle. From specification and design, through to purchasing, distribution, and installation. Plus, any maintenance, repair, or recycling after the fact.
We need to look at the bigger picture when it comes to carbon measurement. To make sure we’re capturing the true environmental impact of projects, and reliably calculating progress towards net zero.
To achieve this, suppliers should look for tools and technologies that support ongoing data capture and reporting. And that allow for decentralised data capture and shifting responsibility of logging as projects develop.
The carbon deadlines will be here before we know it, making it increasingly important that the construction industry comes together to make real, tangible progress. Improved data practices will be an integral part of this, helping to bring everyone onto the same page and streamlining the journey to net zero
The Impact platform makes capturing the full social and environmental impact of your projects simple. With decentralised data capture, real-time dashboards, and ongoing contract management, it’s never been easier to demonstrate your full value to staff, buyers, and stakeholders. To find out more, schedule a demo or get in touch with the team on 0161 532 4752.