The UK construction industry could cut carbon emissions by 40%, according to the latest statistics showing how the construction industry is one of the biggest contributors to carbon emissions. The news comes as it calls on the government to set targets to cut the number of raw materials used in construction by a third, according to ThinkTank. Doing so would be a massive achievement given that, according to government statistics, construction, demolition and excavation work generated 62 per cent of the UK’s waste in 2018. Will it happen? let’s explore
The waste it produces
The UK construction industry produces significant amounts of waste each year, including hazardous and non-hazardous waste. In 2018, it was estimated that the construction industry in the UK produced around 120 million tonnes of waste, equivalent to around 60% of the total waste produced in the country. This can be from things like soft strip demolition, raw materials used for construction, or just general waste that you’ll find on a construction site.
Some of the more common types of waste produced by the construction industry include:
- Concrete and masonry waste
- Wood and wood waste
- Metal waste
- Plastic waste
- Cardboard and paper waste
- Hazardous waste, such as asbestos and contaminated soil
What does it mean for the environment?
There are numerous negative impacts on the environment that the government and environmental groups like the Green Alliance are trying to eradicate. One of the main ways is through greenhouse gas emissions produced during the extraction, processing, transport and disposal of construction materials. The production of construction materials such as cement, steel and glass can be energy-intensive and generate significant greenhouse gas emissions. Similarly, transporting these materials to construction sites can also contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
Similarly, the construction industry often involves the destruction of natural habitats and ecosystems, which can have lasting impacts on biodiversity and the environment. Depending on where construction takes place, entire ecosystems can be wiped out.
What is the Government doing about it?
To address this issue, the UK government has implemented a number of regulations and initiatives to reduce the amount of waste produced by the construction industry. This includes requirements for construction companies to develop waste management plans, use recycled materials where possible and dispose of hazardous waste in a safe and environmentally friendly manner. In addition, there are initiatives to encourage the reuse of materials and promote circular economy principles in the construction sector.
Will this really change anything and will the government take action quickly? Well, there are strategies that will be put in place in the next two years that will work, including the requirement that new buildings produce 70-75% less emissions by 2025.
The UK construction industry is booming thanks to demand from a growing population. It is one of the fastest growing countries and industries in the world, currently worth £128.9 billion and expanding rapidly. With construction plans being finalized daily, it is essential that the government finds ways to reduce waste and protect the environment.
