What Is ACAN?
Industry News What is ACAN? An introduction to the Architects Climate Action Network. The Architects Climate Action Network (ACAN!) exists to address the way our built environment is made, operated and renewed in response to the climate emergency. As a network of individuals, we channel personal energy, expertise and action towards a common goal – […]
Digitalisation in Design
Industry News Digitalisation in Design As AI starts to reshape the industry at pace, do we need to assess the skills that we will require to leverage emerging technology? Should we view AI as a looming threat to our collective professions, or will it empower us to grasp enormous material data sets and supercharge our […]
Full circle full potential: British Lands approach to the circular economy
Industry News Full circle full potential: British Lands approach to the circular economy To establish a sustainable market for the exchange of reused building materials in the UK, we need organisations to demonstrate more courage with material choices and share knowledge gained with the wider industry. One such organisation is British Land and this article […]
What If Every Brick Had a Future? Rethinking Demolition and Material Reuse in the Circular Economy
Industry News What If Every Brick Had a Future? Rethinking Demolition and Material Reuse in the Circular Economy This article discusses the role of architects in transitioning our industry towards a circular economy. It highlights the need to shift from a linear design mentality to concepts that consider material disassembly and reuse. It challenges us […]
Ingka Group aims to invest €1 billion to increase recycling infrastructure
Industry News Ingka Group aims to invest €1 billion to increase recycling infrastructure We have had access to affordable, mass-produced furniture for decades through companies like IKEA. Our generation has prioritised convenience and disposability over durability and reuse, reflecting a broader societal addiction to short-term consumption. Now Ingka Group (the largest IKEA franchisee) are investing […]
Exploring the Future of Retrofit Training: The Retrofit Academy Pilots Immersive Learning through Virtual Reality
Industry News Exploring the Future of Retrofit Training: The Retrofit Academy Pilots Immersive Learning through Virtual Reality As the retrofit industry evolves, so does the need for more dynamic and interactive training methods. Traditional classroom and on-site learning remain vital, but emerging technologies such as Virtual Reality transform the learning process. That’s why we are […]
Zero Carbon Accelerator launches to drive net zero future across the capital
Industry News Zero Carbon Accelerator launches to drive net zero future across the capital The Retrofit Academy is proud to support the delivery of the Mayor of London’s Zero Carbon Accelerator, a programme aimed at helping organisations decarbonise and achieve London’s net zero target by 2030. The Retrofit Academy will work alongside Mott MacDonald, Energy […]
Introducing the 2025 Retrofit Academy Awards: Recognising Excellence in Retrofitting
Industry News Introducing the 2025 Retrofit Academy Awards: Recognising Excellence in Retrofitting Established in 2022, the Retrofit Academy Awards celebrate excellence in retrofit across 11 categories, recognising outstanding contributions from coordinators, installers, social housing initiatives, local authorities, and individual projects. Winners will be crowned on Tuesday, 04 March 2025, after day one of the National […]
Could you be the next construction tech influencer?
Industry News Could you be the next construction tech influencer? Going big is the best way to gain value from your people and technology investments – so it’s time to showcase your achievements and tell your success stories together with other industry tech influencers. The future belongs to those who embrace construction tech to unlock […]
My new dark red climate stripe for 2024 show that it was the hottest year yet. Ed Hawkins, Professor of Climate Science, University of Reading in The Conversation 10th January 2025
Industry News My new dark red climate stripe for 2024 show that it was the hottest year yet. Ed Hawkins, Professor of Climate Science, University of Reading in The Conversation 10th January 2025 The data is in. 2024 was the warmest year on record, and probably in the whole of human history – about 1.6°C […]
Competence frameworks for the built environment – Core criteria for sustainability competence – Code of practice
Industry News Competence frameworks for the built environment – Core criteria for sustainability competence – Code of practice The Edge, with the CIC’s Climate Change Committee, the support of the University College for Estate Management (UCEM) and an industry-wide Advisory Panel, has developed a proposed Competence Framework for sustainability in the built environment. The Framework […]
Building Inclusion: A Practical Guide to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Architecture and the Built Environment. Marsha Ramroop, Taylor & Francis (2024)
Industry News Building Inclusion: A Practical Guide to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Architecture and the Built Environment. Marsha Ramroop, Taylor & Francis (2024) The need to achieve greater equity, diversity and inclusion in architecture and the built environment has gained momentum over recent years, but how can this be successfully implemented in both work […]
All to play for: how to design child friendly housing. Dinah Bornat (2025) RIBA Publishing
Industry News All to play for: how to design child friendly housing. Dinah Bornat (2025) RIBA Publishing This book poses the question: How can we meet the needs of children and young people recognising that just over 20% of the UK population is under the aged of 18 and yet are too often ignored when […]
Shaping the future: Key Insights from The Edge
Industry News Shaping the future: Key Insights from The Edge In our last think piece for the Futurebuild in August 2024 we outlined five initiatives that the Edge, the built and natural environment think tank and curator of the Futurebuild Arena Conference, had delivered or were underway. The five were:1. Policy proposals for the built […]
How optimistic are you about AI’s future?
Industry News How optimistic are you about AI’s future? This piece delves into public sentiment and expert opinions regarding the future of artificial intelligence. It explores varying levels of optimism, concerns about ethical implications, potential societal impacts, and the anticipated trajectory of AI development. The article encourages reflection on AI’s evolving role in our lives. […]
The APAC tech revolution: 5 trends shaping our future
Industry News The APAC tech revolution: 5 trends shaping our future This article examines five technological trends driving the Asia-Pacific region’s future. It discusses advancements in artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), 5G connectivity, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. The piece emphasises how these technologies are influencing business operations and societal developments in the region. […]
60 construction statistics for 2025: trends, data, and analysis
Industry News 60 construction statistics for 2025: trends, data, and analysis This compilation presents key statistics and trends shaping the construction industry as of 2025. It covers global market growth projections, sector-specific spending, employment figures, and the increasing adoption of construction technologies. The data provides insights into the industry’s economic impact and future trajectory. READ […]
Building the future: how AI is revolutionising construction
Industry News Building the future: how AI is revolutionising construction This article explores the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the construction industry. It discusses AI’s applications in design optimisation, project management, supply chain logistics, and on-site safety monitoring. The piece highlights how AI enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and improves decision-making in construction projects. […]
These 4 approaches to everyday deliveries could make life better in cities
Industry News These 4 approaches to everyday deliveries could make life better in cities With Christmas approaching, this report resonated with me because it examines the challenges of urban congestion caused by e-commerce deliveries. The solutions discussed, such as micro-distribution hubs and optimised routing, are equally relevant to construction companies tackling transport emissions and inefficiencies […]
How cities are using nature-based solutions to tackle floods
Industry News How cities are using nature-based solutions to tackle floods I found this article particularly insightful as it explores how cities are adopting nature-based solutions like wetlands and urban forests to reduce the impact of flooding. These approaches offer inspiration for the construction industry to integrate similar sustainable strategies, ensuring projects are both resilient […]
JCB signs up for Green Steel
Industry News JCB signs up for Green Steel The construction industry contributes significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions, with steel production responsible for around a quarter of the embodied carbon in the construction process. JCB’s commitment to using green steel is an important step forward. This resonates strongly with the work I do, helping businesses […]
Data-enabled digger helps HS2 contractor win top sustainability award
Industry News Data-enabled digger helps HS2 contractor win top sustainability award EKFB, a client I work closely with, has been recognised for its innovative use of a data-enabled digger, winning a top sustainability award. This highlights the value of engaging the supply chain on sustainability reporting and showcases the impactful work my colleagues at the […]
Government must take a data-driven approach
Industry News Government must take a data-driven approach The Construction Industry Council says “a long-term, data-driven commitment to the construction industry would bring cross-government benefits” and “drive best practice through improved reporting and analysis of post-occupancy performance data. Such an approach could lead to more informed decision-making, improved project outcomes, and greater accountability across the sector. […]
Open Digital Planning builds data specification for planning applications
Industry News Open Digital Planning builds data specification for planning applications The ODP group has called on local planning authorities to help it build a data specification for planning applications, creating a consistent open approach across local government. This initiative aims to enhance collaboration, streamline processes, and ensure better interoperability of planning data, ultimately supporting more […]
10 years on from Plain Language BIM: Why are we still struggling?
Industry News 10 years on from Plain Language BIM: Why are we still struggling? Iain Miskimmin argues that we are still struggling to deliver the right information to the right people at the right time. (The IMI will help create tools and resources to simplify and streamline the adoption of BIM and wider information and […]
The digital challenge continues for quantity surveyors
Industry News The digital challenge continues for quantity surveyors Just 32% of quantity surveyors who responded to a RICS survey are using digital tools on most or all of their projects across six key processes. Areas like whole-life thinking and carbon calculations show stagnant adoption rates. This slow adoption of digital tools underscores the need for […]
CEM VI Concrete trials at Canary Wharf to reduce embodied carbon
Industry News CEM VI Concrete trials at Canary Wharf to reduce embodied carbon Canary Wharf is testing CEM VI concrete to lower embodied carbon in construction. This trial is part of ongoing efforts to make the building sector more sustainable by exploring low-carbon alternatives to traditional cement. Success in these trials could significantly reduce carbon […]
The UK climate resilience roadmap
Industry News The UK climate resilience roadmap The UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) has launched the Climate Resilience Roadmap, a comprehensive strategy to adapt the UK’s built environment to increasing climate challenges. This roadmap outlines evidence-based steps and targets to address risks such as extreme weather, overheating, and flooding, which threaten buildings and infrastructure. Developed […]
New standards for low-carbon concrete unveiled at COP29
Industry News New standards for low-carbon concrete unveiled at COP29 The Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) introduced international low-carbon concrete definitions at COP29. Designed to support the construction industry’s decarbonisation, these standards offer global consistency while adapting to local benchmarks. Using Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), the framework aims to accelerate the adoption of greener […]
Rising Flood Risks Could Add £818 Million to UK Construction Costs
Industry News Rising flood risks could add £818 million to UK construction costs The UK faces a significant rise in construction expenses—an estimated £818 million over the next 30 years—due to increasing flood risks linked to climate change. To address this challenge, innovative solutions such as sustainable drainage systems, resilient infrastructure, and advanced urban planning […]
Global Green Building Coalition Launches Initiative to Boost Sustainable Building Finance
Industry News Global Green Building Coalition Launches Initiative to Boost Sustainable Building Finance A coalition of global green building organizations, including the UK’s Building Research Establishment (BRE), has launched a sustainable finance initiative to bring more buildings up to environmental standards. The initiative aims to unlock financing for sustainable building projects, addressing the gap where […]
Research Reveals Low Interest in Construction Careers Among UK Adults
Industry News Research Reveals Low Interest in Construction Careers Among UK Adults A recent study commissioned by the construction industry not-for-profit organization Deconstruction found that 68% of UK adults would not consider a career in the construction sector. The industry is often associated with terms like “dirty,” “strenuous,” and “boring,” highlighting the need for initiatives […]
Thurrock Council’s Social Housing Upgrade
Industry News Thurrock Council’s Social Housing Upgrade In Thurrock, over 270 residences in three high-rise tower blocks underwent an energy upgrade, replacing night storage heaters with ground source heat pumps. This initiative is estimated to reduce fuel bills by over 50% for some households and cut carbon emissions by 70%, equating to approximately 7,080 tonnes […]
Self-Build Bungalow in the UK
Industry News Self-Build Bungalow in the UK Retired electrician Mr. James constructed a two-bedroom bungalow focusing on sustainability. He installed a Shoebox NX ground source heat pump, complemented by 12 solar panels and a 13kW battery. This setup allows him to live almost entirely off-grid with a minimal carbon footprint. READ FULL ARTICLE HERE Share […]
Exploring Biophilic Design in hospitality: issue 11 focus on hotels and leisure
Industry News Exploring Biophilic Design in hospitality: issue 11 focus on hotels and leisure The Sept/October Retail issue of the Journal of Biophilic Design, features a brilliant article by a godfather of Biophilic Design, Bill Browning, where he explains that “Biophilic design has been listed as one of the top design trends in hospitality for […]
Microsoft pioneers wooden datacenters to reduce carbon emissions and champion sustainability
Industry News Microsoft pioneers wooden datacenters to reduce carbon emissions and champion sustainability Microsoft is building a new data centre with mass timber. This is a growing trend in construction using cross-laminated timber, or CLT, a fire-resistant prefabricated wood material. This helps reduce the use of steel and concrete and “significantly reduce the embodied carbon […]
Salutogenic Design: the next evolution in creating health-focused workspaces
Industry News Salutogenic Design: the next evolution in creating health-focused workspaces This article explores how Biophilia, has gained mainstream attention, highlighted by a CNN interview with Oliver Heath, a leading proponent in Europe. This growing interest reflects organisations’ efforts to address multiple challenges, such as employee engagement, wellbeing, and productivity. Evidence supports that biophilic office […]
Inside Pininfarina of America: exploring Biophilic Towers, lounge concepts, and the design principles shaping sustainable living
Industry News Inside Pininfarina of America: exploring Biophilic Towers, lounge concepts, and the design principles shaping sustainable living This article dives into Pininfarina of America’s innovative approach to architecture and interior design, emphasising biophilic principles that go beyond aesthetics. It highlights the integration of natural elements, spatial harmony, and sustainable materials to create environments that […]
UK Budget 2024: Key Opportunities for the Construction Sector
Industry News UK Budget 2024: Key Opportunities for the Construction Sector The UK Budget 2024 presents promising opportunities for the construction industry, emphasising sustainable projects and regional investments. Major areas of focus include infrastructure expansion, housing, and energy-efficient retrofitting, aligning with the government’s broader sustainability goals. While the sector faces challenges like fluctuating costs and […]
UK House Builders Anticipate Passivhaus Standard Details
Industry News UK House Builders Anticipate Passivhaus Standard Details UK housebuilders are awaiting specifics on the planned adoption of the Passivhaus standard, a design aimed at drastically improving energy efficiency in residential buildings. The new standard will require homes to meet strict criteria for insulation, airtightness, and energy usage, aligning with the UK’s environmental goals. […]
Balancing Act: Implementing Net-Zero Standards in Construction
Industry News Balancing Act: Implementing Net-Zero Standards in Construction The UK’s Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard aims to significantly curb carbon emissions in building construction and operations. This framework, demanding yet achievable, encourages the industry to adopt sustainable materials, improve energy efficiency, and reduce waste. Although the transition poses challenges—such as higher costs and the […]
Tech-connected plant ‘could be worth £400bn to economy
Industry News Tech-connected plant ‘could be worth £400bn to economy Greater use of connected and autonomous plant (CAP) in the construction sector could boost the UK economy by £417 billion within two and a half decades, according to a study by Costain. This figure represents benefits that could be generated both through extensive use of […]
Aira opens first Scotland ‘hub’ to drive UK heat pump plans
Industry News Aira opens first Scotland ‘hub’ to drive UK heat pump plans Following investment, Aira has opened its first training hub in the UK to support national roll-out of heat pump systems offered as part of monthly subscription charge model. As part of a £300 million UK investment strategy, the company is aiming to […]
Electric wallpaper to be trialled in Glasgow tenements
Industry News Electric wallpaper to be trialled in Glasgow tenements A pilot led by the University of Glasgow, University of Strathclyde, West of Scotland Housing Association, and Glasgow City Council is trialling electric wallpaper in 12 Glasgow tenements to assess its effectiveness as a clean heat source. Funded by Scotland Beyond Net Zero – a […]
Centre to accelerate net-zero buildings for cities
Industry News Centre to accelerate net-zero buildings for cities The new Centre for Net-Zero High Density Buildings is an initiative that aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions from densely packed buildings in UK cities and towns. With a £4.5 million funding boost from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), it will investigate how to make buildings […]
Planet Earth is in critical condition. These are the steps the world must take to change that
Industry News Planet Earth is in critical condition. These are the steps the world must take to change that The Planetary Health Check, launched by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, reveals that six of Earth’s nine critical planetary systems, including climate, biodiversity, and freshwater cycles, have breached safe operating limits, placing life on […]
ZED-Power partner with 540 WORLD for supply chain innovations
Industry News ZED-Power partner with 540 WORLD for supply chain innovations 540 WORLD has teamed up with ZED Power to audit materials used in ZED Power’s Zed CNC house system. The goal is to enhance sustainability, health, and circularity through the Cradle to Cradle Certified® Products Program. ZED Power, a pioneer in zero-carbon housing, will […]
Introducing C2C Certified® Circularity, a new product certification
Industry News Introducing C2C Certified® Circularity, a new product certification The Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute has launched the C2C Certified® Circularity certification, designed to promote sustainable product design for a circular economy. This certification, part of the updated Cradle to Cradle Certified® Version 4.1 standard, focuses on circular sourcing, design, and systems to […]
Trees and land absorbed almost no CO2 last year. Is nature’s carbon sink failing?
Industry News Trees and land absorbed almost no CO2 last year. Is nature’s carbon sink failing? In 2023, natural carbon sinks, including forests and oceans, absorbed significantly less CO2, raising concerns about their ability to regulate climate. This decline, worsened by wildfires and rising temperatures, could speed up global warming, as these sinks are crucial […]
Floods and landslides leave 18 dead in Bosnia
Industry News Floods and landslides leave 18 dead in Bosnia At the beginning of October, flash floods and landslides following a period of heavy rain caused devastation in central Bosnia-Herzegovina. Some towns and villages have been cut off, homes are flooded and washed away, and there has been severe damage to roads, bridges and railway […]