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Sustainability in Construction: Key Trends and Insights
See how the latest sustainability pressures are impacting the construction industry.
Sustainability in construction is no longer a distant goal, as its impact is already being felt. With growing environmental concerns and stricter regulations, manufacturers, suppliers, and contractors are under increasing pressure to adapt. The entire construction supply chain must now respond to these sustainability demands. To help you get a better understanding, we’ve highlighted a few changes you need to be aware of.
Regulatory Pressures on Manufacturers
Manufacturers are increasingly facing regulatory mandates to produce eco-friendly products without compromising the structural integrity and safety of their offerings. These requirements are pushing them to rethink traditional methods and adopt more sustainable materials. As regulatory bodies continue to prioritise environmental standards, manufacturers will need to integrate sustainable practices into their production processes.
One of the key pressures comes from the necessity to meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) targets. Failure to meet these standards can have significant consequences, not just for manufacturers but also for the contractors and suppliers they work with. Companies that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability by using greener materials or by reducing their carbon footprints are more likely to win contracts, especially with higher-profile clients who prioritise these values.
ESG Targets and the Impact on Contractors
For contractors, reducing ESG targets goes hand-in-hand with renewable energy used on-site. Adopting practical, renewable solutions will directly reduce your environmental footprint. Some examples of this could include using an electric fleet, incorporating energy-efficient equipment, and even sourcing materials from low-carbon suppliers.
It’s important to recognise that meeting ESG targets is no longer a box-ticking exercise. Large firms and developers are increasingly scrutinising the sustainability credentials of their subcontractors. As a result, contractors who can prove that they align with these standards will have a competitive edge.
How Construction Has Changed
This shift is no longer confined to commercial developments, with residential construction catching up. Over the last two years, sustainability demands have gained momentum, making their way into the residential sector after being heavily focused on commercial projects.
To get started, the UK government has already made clear incentives, such as BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) points. BREEAM points can improve a project’s environmental performance, and in some cases, these points may lead to financial incentives from the government.
This fits in line with the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy. A clear statement in their vision for 2025 was construction “has become dramatically more sustainable through its efficient approach to delivering low carbon assets more quickly and at a lower cost, underpinned by strong, integrated supply chains and productive long-term relationships.”
Expanding Definitions of Sustainability
At Plastech®, we’ve taken steps towards sustainability by offering products that contribute to greener practices. For instance, we’ve partnered with Polypipe’s stocking their soil and waste system, which is made from 65% recycled materials. Additionally, we offer pre-fabricated options on some of our HDPE range, which significantly reduces waste on construction sites.
As a supplier, we also request Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) from our manufacturers. EPDs provide detailed sustainability metrics, including raw materials used, emissions generated during production, and product shelf life. By sourcing materials from manufacturers that provide transparency through EPDs, we ensure that the products we supply meet the growing sustainability standards of the industry.
Prepare Now for a Sustainable Future
Sustainability in construction demand is increasing and will continue to reshape the industry. Companies that fail to adapt will find themselves at a competitive disadvantage, as sustainability becomes a key factor in securing new business. Now is the time to prepare your business for these changes by aligning your practices with emerging standards and requirements.
