Construction sector responds to 7th Carbon Budget

The Climate Change Committee (CCC) has published its advice for the UK’s Seventh Carbon Budget, outlining the next steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions between 2038 and 2042. The recommendations include a shift to electric vehicles, increased heat pump installation, dietary changes, and expanding renewable energy sources. The CCC advises that the UK must cut emissions by 87% by 2040 compared to 1990 levels to stay on track for net zero by 2050.

The construction industry, responsible for around 44% of the UK’s carbon emissions, has a significant role in this transition. Richard Robinson, deputy co-chair of the Construction Leadership Council and president, UK & Ireland, AtkinsRealis, welcomed the report, saying: “The report marks a key point in the drive to net zero, reflecting the wider current challenging business environment in which we are collectively operating.”

Robinson highlighted the sector’s responsibilities, including installing heat pumps, using digital technology to improve building efficiency, adopting green finance initiatives, and supporting electric vehicle adoption. He also noted upcoming regulatory changes from 2026 that will require all new homes to include low-carbon heating systems. “As a contributor of around 44% of the UK’s carbon emissions, the construction sector will have a key role to play in this debate,” he said. “This includes, as the report sets out, areas such as heat pump installation; how we build and heat our homes using advances in digital technology; green finance; roll-out of electric vehicles; potential growth in skilled jobs and changes to building regulations.”

The Construction Leadership Council has made progress through initiatives such as Construct Zero and the Green Construction Board, but Robinson acknowledged there is still more to be done. “We are collectively aware there is more we can and must do as the sector continues to reduce its collective carbon emissions to ensure we deliver a sustainable and tangible change,” he stated.

He confirmed the industry’s commitment to working with the government, the CCC, and other stakeholders to support businesses in transitioning to lower-carbon practices. “We will continue to work closely with the Committee for Climate Change, Government, industry bodies and business on these issues, supporting businesses to make the transition,” Robinson said. The response from the construction sector will be crucial in meeting the UK’s climate goals.