How robotic animals are adding a new dimension to project sites
Industry News Almost 2/3 of all UK waste comes from the buildings sector By auditing what can be reused, developers can save money, carbon and materials. So why is this not standard practice? UK construction waste is a significant issue, with 62% ending up in landfills. A circular economy, pre-redevelopment audits, and reuse assessments can reduce […]
Environmental twins could save the world tomorrow
Industry News Almost 2/3 of all UK waste comes from the buildings sector By auditing what can be reused, developers can save money, carbon and materials. So why is this not standard practice? UK construction waste is a significant issue, with 62% ending up in landfills. A circular economy, pre-redevelopment audits, and reuse assessments can reduce […]
What do we need to change to make better use of our digital twins?
Opinion Piece What do we need to change to make better use of our digital twins? Opinion piece by Rebecca De Cicco, Principal– Digital Enablement, Aurecon & Global Chair, Women in BIM A Grenfell Tower tragedy survivor only realised the 24-storey building was on fire when they heard fire engines arrive. The building’s lack of […]
UN Plastics Treaty draft unveiled, with global bans on problematic plastics in sight
Industry News Almost 2/3 of all UK waste comes from the buildings sector By auditing what can be reused, developers can save money, carbon and materials. So why is this not standard practice? UK construction waste is a significant issue, with 62% ending up in landfills. A circular economy, pre-redevelopment audits, and reuse assessments can reduce […]
The journey to circular cities: the current problem with materials
Industry News Almost 2/3 of all UK waste comes from the buildings sector By auditing what can be reused, developers can save money, carbon and materials. So why is this not standard practice? UK construction waste is a significant issue, with 62% ending up in landfills. A circular economy, pre-redevelopment audits, and reuse assessments can reduce […]
Reuse Now Campaign relaunches
Industry News Almost 2/3 of all UK waste comes from the buildings sector By auditing what can be reused, developers can save money, carbon and materials. So why is this not standard practice? UK construction waste is a significant issue, with 62% ending up in landfills. A circular economy, pre-redevelopment audits, and reuse assessments can reduce […]
Almost 2/3 of all UK waste comes from the buildings sector
Industry News Almost 2/3 of all UK waste comes from the buildings sector By auditing what can be reused, developers can save money, carbon and materials. So why is this not standard practice? UK construction waste is a significant issue, with 62% ending up in landfills. A circular economy, pre-redevelopment audits, and reuse assessments can reduce […]
Builders Wanted For £6bn Utilities Framework
Industry News Aviva commits to insuring engineered timber Aviva aims to achieve Net Zero by 2040 and focus on a low-carbon construction sector. By incorporating engineered timber in commercial property developments, the company aims to reduce the construction sector’s carbon footprint by 40%. Aviva’s risk management strategies ensure building resilience and repairability, while considering the […]
Aviva commits to insuring engineered timber
Industry News Aviva commits to insuring engineered timber Aviva aims to achieve Net Zero by 2040 and focus on a low-carbon construction sector. By incorporating engineered timber in commercial property developments, the company aims to reduce the construction sector’s carbon footprint by 40%. Aviva’s risk management strategies ensure building resilience and repairability, while considering the […]
Schools told close all buildings containing problem concrete
Industry News Finalists for 2023 Building Awards revealed The 2023 Building Awards 2022 ceremony will take place on November 7th at the Grosvenor House Hotel. Firms like Aecom, Atkins, Gleeds, ISG, Kier, and Mace are in contention for prizes, with Core Five, Currie & Brown, and Rider Levett Bucknall in contention for Consultant of the […]
Why is the reuse of construction materials and products so important?
Opinion Piece Why is the reuse of construction materials and products so important? Opinion piece by Debbie Ward, Reuse/ Circular Economy from Alliance of Sustainable Building Products Looking at the bigger, biggest, picture, we are not in great shape. Our world has finite resources and we have been using, are using and will continue to […]
Finalists for 2023 Building Awards revealed
Industry News Finalists for 2023 Building Awards revealed The 2023 Building Awards 2022 ceremony will take place on November 7th at the Grosvenor House Hotel. Firms like Aecom, Atkins, Gleeds, ISG, Kier, and Mace are in contention for prizes, with Core Five, Currie & Brown, and Rider Levett Bucknall in contention for Consultant of the […]
When designing for tomorrow, innovation is a necessity
Industry News When designing for tomorrow, innovation is a necessity Design decisions are crucial for a sustainable future, requiring organisations to adopt a multidisciplinary approach. Building Design’s R&I unit integrates digital expertise, research, and environmental analysis, while the Urban Community Index improves understanding of urban ecosystems through data. Effective methods for sharing answers are essential […]
Supplier sought for massive solar membrane over London Stadium
Industry News Supplier sought for massive solar membrane over London Stadium Mace is procuring a solar membrane for West Ham United’s London Stadium, aiming to reduce energy bills. The lightweight membrane generates over 1 million kWh of renewable energy annually, potentially saving 270 tonnes of carbon emissions and cutting bills by £350,000. Read the full […]
Building Safety Act: what architects need to know about new secondary legislation
Industry News Building Safety Act: what architects need to know about new secondary legislation DLUHC has published secondary legislation, Part 3 of the Building Safety Act 2022 to enhance project oversight and accountability for safety in higher-risk buildings and non-HRBs. The legislation requires dutyholders to ensure competence, cooperate, and communicate. HRBs must prioritise understanding the […]
Cundall appoints Dr Olli Jones to head sustainability and innovation for Cundall’s HQ
Industry News Is the UK achieving green growth progress? The UK has made progress in transitioning to a greener economy, but ambitious climate goals like net zero require further examination and additional measures. Supporting sustainable innovation, reviewing incentives, funding, and supporting smaller businesses is crucial. Focusing on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable transportation can […]
Is the UK achieving green growth progress?
Industry News Is the UK achieving green growth progress? The UK has made progress in transitioning to a greener economy, but ambitious climate goals like net zero require further examination and additional measures. Supporting sustainable innovation, reviewing incentives, funding, and supporting smaller businesses is crucial. Focusing on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable transportation can […]
AI to help UK industries cut carbon emissions on path to net zero
Industry News AI to help UK industries cut carbon emissions on path to net zero The list of espoused saviours in our carbon reduction crusade continues. From “the market will respond” to “industry will develop the solutions”. The problem with ambiguously supporting innovation through broad funding streams, is that eager for the next fix the […]
Sunak shuts door on net zero referendum
Industry News How much of England is protected for nature? Report shows government may fail to meet 2030 target A new report from the House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee finds that major change is needed in the Government’s approach if UK is to meet its target of protecting 30% of land and […]
Welcome to Death Valley
Opinion Piece Welcome to Death Valley Opinion piece by Dr Olli Jones, Head of Sustainability & Innovation, Cundall What is the death valley curve? In the process of technological innovation there is something called the “valley of death”. In the innovation of new products and technologies, we typically see an early buoyant, even jubilant peak […]
How much of England is protected for nature? Report shows government may fail to meet 2030 target
Industry News How much of England is protected for nature? Report shows government may fail to meet 2030 target A new report from the House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee finds that major change is needed in the Government’s approach if UK is to meet its target of protecting 30% of land and […]
Nature restoration law: MEPs adopt position for negotiations with Council
Industry News Nature restoration law: MEPs adopt position for negotiations with Council MEPs recognise the role which nature restoration plays in food security, combating nature loss and adapting to climate change by voting to rehabilitate at least 20% of Europe’s degraded ecosystems by 2030. Read the full article here. Share this article: Read more:
New report proves nature-based health projects save NHS time and money | The Wildlife Trusts
Industry News New report proves nature-based health projects save NHS time and money | The Wildlife Trusts Nature-based health and wellbeing programmes could save hundreds of millions of pounds each year and reduce society’s reliance on the NHS, according to a new report by The Wildlife Trusts. Read the full article here. Share this article: Read […]
Nature should be prioritised in public decision-making and farming, says panel | The Independent
Industry News Nature should be prioritised in public decision-making and farming, says panel | The Independent Nature must play a part in public decision making, farming subsidies need to be overhauled and a permanent nature assembly should be set up; that’s the view of the ‘People’s Plan for Nature’, a citizens assembly made up of […]
Taking a stand for nature’s future: The need for transformative action to halt environmental decline
Opinion Piece Taking a stand for nature’s future: The need for transformative action to halt environmental decline Opinion piece by Richard Benwell, Chief Executive at Wildlife and Countryside Link Walk round the Futurebuild hall, and it can be like stepping into a virtual reality. The conference is a collective exercise of imagination for a better […]
The development of two new community living projects in Cardiff that will house senior citizens is about to get under way
Industry News The development of two new community living projects in Cardiff that will house senior citizens is about to go under way Cardiff Council plans to build 86 apartments in Butetown and Leckwith Road, with Hale Construction constructing 45 one and two-bed apartments. The scheme includes electric scooter charging, bicycle storage, activity rooms, and […]
122 new council dwellings are completed with a council-marked final pour of concrete
Industry News 122 new council dwellings are completed with a council- marked final pour of concrete A celebration was held to mark the construction of over 100 council homes at Kidbrooke Park Road North development. Part-funded by London’s Homes for Londoners programme, the homes will use ground source heat pumps, solar panels, and efficient insulation. […]
GSHPA’s online training course acquires CPD Certification
Industry News GSPHA’s online training course acquires CPD Certification GSHPA has granted CPD certification for its online training course, ‘Stream One – Heat Pumps for Engineers,’ for professionals working towards Zero Carbon strategies. Course covers topics like installation, geology, hydraulics, operational principles, integration, and handover processes. Read the full article here. Share this article: Read more:
Debunking 22 common misconceptions about heat pumps
Industry News Debunking 22 common misconceptions about heat pumps The UK government aims to install 600,000 heat pumps by 2028, but deployment remains low. Misconceptions about heat pumps include inefficiency, noise, cost, and property devaluation. Factors like long lifetimes and cost reduction are false. Heat pumps improve electricity mix and automatically adjust to outdoor and […]
Embracing Ground Source Heat Pumps: A Climate Win We Can’t Ignore
Opinion Piece Embracing Ground Source Heat Pumps: A Climate Win We Can’t Ignore Opinion piece by Ken Gordon, Chief Executive Officer of Ground Source Heat Pumping Association (GSHPA) As the global community grapples with the urgency of climate change, one technology stands out as a promising solution in the fight against greenhouse gas emissions – […]
CSN Industry Outlook
Industry News CSN Industry Outlook The Construction Skills Network predicts an additional 225,000 construction workers in the UK by 2027, despite a 2023 recession. The industry faces recruitment and training challenges, with demand in private housing, infrastructure, and repair and maintenance sectors. Read the full article here. Share this article: Read more:
Digital visualization tools revolutionize engineering and construction Industry in Asia
Industry News Digital visualization tools revolutionize engineering and construction industry in Asia Digital visualisation tools are essential for improving the construction industry’s efficiency and productivity. These tools, such as BIM, drone technology, VR, AR, MR, 4D construction sequencing, and information tracking, enable testing in digital environments, reduce operational errors, and improve design outcomes. Read the […]
5 essential technology-focused leadership skills
Industry News 5 essential technology- focused leadership skills A recent study by Deloitte highlights the shift in technology leadership roles, with technology now leading the business and business leading technology. The study found that tech-savvy leaders are now more focused on collaboration, communication, coordination, and co-creation skills. The top five areas where tech-focused executives spend […]
Apprenticeships are bridging the skills gap in construction
Industry News Apprenticeships are bridging the skills gap in construction The UK construction sector are facing skills shortage due to factors such as an ageing workforce, Brexit, and economic uncertainty. With over 20% of tradespeople in their sixties, fewer young people are entering the industry to replace them. This lack of suitable candidates impacts profits […]
HMM: The Decarbonisation Of Social Housing
Industry News HMM: The Decarbonisation of Social Housing The UK housing industry is increasingly aware of the importance of decarbonizing its stock to reduce its carbon footprint. However, barriers such as costs, supply, and access hinder action. Respondents believe the UK’s average social housing stock is inadequate in terms of energy performance, with 80% describing […]
HbD: Responding to Change – The impacts of the Amended Parts L & F
Industry News HbD: Responding to Change- The impacts of the Amended Parts L & F With over one in five homes in the country being first constructed over 100 years ago, the UK has the oldest – and arguably most inefficient – housing stock in Europe. In no small part because of this, at present […]
HbD: Building Safety into Law
Industry News Design for SuDS Following a series of watered-down policy initiatives, the Government has finally announced that it will be mandatory to include Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in virtually all new housing developments from 2024. The Flood and Water Management Act was brought into law in 2010 but the Government at the time decided not to implement its Schedule […]
Design for SuDS
Industry News Design for SuDS Following a series of watered-down policy initiatives, the Government has finally announced that it will be mandatory to include Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in virtually all new housing developments from 2024. The Flood and Water Management Act was brought into law in 2010 but the Government at the time decided not to implement its Schedule […]
Tata plans £4bn gigafactory in Bridgwater
Industry News Tata plans £4bn gigafactory in Bridgewater Tata Group plans to build a 40GWh gigafactory in Bridgwater, UK, with £500m in incentives. The UK government’s support for the electric car industry is crucial for growth and job creation. The investment secures thousands of jobs and ensures the UK’s battery industry remains competitive in zero […]
Solar Windows: The Future of Sustainable Building and Design
Industry News Solar Windows: The future of Sustainable Building and Design Solar windows are a promising technology that harnesses the sun’s energy to reduce energy consumption in buildings. Made from transparent solar cells, they generate clean, renewable energy, reducing energy consumption by 40%. They offer a unique opportunity to generate electricity in urban environments, and […]
Gove’s judgement about M&S: how the sector responded
Industry News Gove’s judgement about M&S: how the sector responded Marks & Spencer’s Oxford Street redevelopment plan has been rejected by Michael Gove, potentially setting a precedent for future demolish and rebuild projects. The decision, praised by Save Britain’s Heritage, could damage the district’s reputation as a global business destination. The London Property Alliance supports […]
The steel industry adopts greener practices amid hydrogen buzz!
Industry News The steel industry adopts greener practices amid hydrogen buzz! Steel production contributes to 9% of global carbon dioxide emissions, but the industry is shifting towards green steel plants to reduce emissions by 50% by 2050. The EU increased its green steel projects to 38 in 2023, and Germany invested $9.1bn in decarbonisation. Green […]
How to close digital skills gaps
Opinion Piece How to close digital skills gaps Opinion piece by Rebecca De Cicco, Global Chair and Founder of Women in BIM, and Principal for Digital Enablement at Aurecon. Digital impacts everything we do from the homes we live in to the roads we travel on and the places in which we work. The construction industry […]
Why we must all work together for trees
Opinion Piece Why we must all work together for trees An opinion piece by Sue James and Keith Sacre, Trees and Design Action Group ‘Working in collaboration for better places’ and ‘Working together for trees’ are long-standing aims of the Trees and Design Action Group. The evidence-based environmental, social, and economic benefits of trees have […]
Fast Labs: Accelerating Lab Deployment for the Bio-Revolution
Opinion Piece Fast Labs: Accelerating Lab Deployment for the Bio-Revolution An opinion piece by Alastair Powell, Director, Bryden Wood. The Bio-Revolution The ‘bio-revolution’ is a term used to describe the recent and rapid advancement in the life sciences, brought about due to a convergence in major scientific breakthroughs and maturing technologies, including AI, automation, and […]
Why now is the time to ‘take a lead’
Opinion Piece Why now is the time to ‘take a lead’ An opinion piece by Adrian Catchpole, CEng FCIBSE, CIBSE President We are faced with an urgent need to bridge the engineering skills gap internationally. It is no secret that the demand for skilled professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields is rapidly […]
Circular construction is a degenerative design option, unless we specify harm-free materials first
Opinion Piece Circular construction is a degenerative design option, unless we specify harm-free materials first An opinion piece by Chaline Church, Founding Partner, 540 WORLD As regenerative design consultants, we have concluded that the links critically missing from many conversations around circular design and building ‘sustainably’, is full stakeholder integration and secondly, and vitally, what […]
Net Zero Pioneer special: 60 seconds with Hanson
Opinion Piece Net Zero Pioneer special: 60 seconds with Hanson Hanson Concrete is committed to reaching net zero by 2050. Looking specifically at concrete, what are you doing to achieve this? Approximately 90% of the CO2 in a cubic metre of typical 35 MPa CEM I concrete comes from Portland cement. While we are investing […]
Creating a sustainable skilled workforce for the future requires commitment from the Government
Opinion Piece Creating a sustainable skilled workforce for the future requires commitment from the Government An opinion by Dr David Moore, CEO, British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA) As a national Trade Association, we were more than happy to get involved in the Government apprenticeship standards development as our industry has struggled for years to get […]
Building Capacity for Climate Action: Adopting the Climate Framework
Opinion Piece Building Capacity for Climate Action: Adopting the Climate Framework An opinion by Mina Hasman, RIBA, ARB, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP, BREEAM AP, Sustainability Director, SOM & Climate Framework Initiative Lead. The built environment and construction industry, as well as associated professional and educational bodies are showing a momentous culture shift, reporting much […]