Greenhouse gas emissions related to activities during construction are the result of decisions made at several stages in the value chain. The greatest impact comes from the decision to build, or not to build. Planning, design, construction, and demolition (where applicable) all influence emissions on construction sites. Environmental impact estimates are also included as measurements are needed in order to understand and monitor emissions. Sustainability is a topic also raised here in order to look at construction emissions on a broader plane. This report has investigated the current status in these fields, with a focus on construction sites.
It finds that further research and development in all stages of construction can benefit emission-free construction sites. It follows that co-operation and knowledge-sharing between stakeholders is important for implementing positive changes.
Urban planning and building design
These are the first phases in the construction of a building and is where the most important decisions are made about the construction and its environmental impact, such as emissions during construction.
Look at how the pre-construction phases affect emissions during construction.
Examine whether and how urban planning can reduce the transport of materials.
Study the influence of building types and material choices on emissions during construction.
Assessment of environmental impact
Closely related to the design phase is the assessment of the environmental impact the building will have. The industry standard is the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. A better understanding is needed of emission sources in the construction process.
Energy in construction and transport
Emission-free construction sites must phase out fossil fuels and replace them with clean energy sources, both on-site and in material transport. This is a key area that calls for research into new technologies and new methods in energy management.
Find ways to build using less energy and improve energy efficiency in material transport and construction processes.
Investigate more clean energy options for emission-free construction sites.
Invent new methods to manage energy and new energy infrastructure at construction sites.
Waste and material resources
Construction waste causes emissions attributable to the construction site. Waste needs to be minimised and its management improved. New thinking and methods are needed to reduce these emissions and conserve material resources.
Clarify and analyse the overall quantity of waste, its management, and emissions.
Gain insight into how building design impacts the generation of construction waste.
Enhance the reuse and recycling of material on construction sites.
Regulations and incentives
Financial incentives and green public procurement are tools that can accelerate the transition to emission-free construction. The regulation of emissions from construction is underway in the Nordic countries.
Establish ambitious yet attainable criteria.
Encourage private companies to integrate emission reductions into their tender requirements.
Establish a binding follow-up mechanism
Sustainability
The construction industry must become sustainable just as any sector of industry. Emissions must be reduced rapidly in all sectors to avert the severe consequences of climate change.
Measures that can be implemented at construction sites to deliver results quicker.
Consider the negative consequences of changing resource use in construction projects.
Increase the industry’s interest in degrowth thinking.
Identify ways to translate Planetary Boundaries into specific reduction targets.