The UK has set some of the most ambitious carbon reduction targets in the world, but to turn these into reality will require legislation – and so far there is only the Climate Change Act. While this specifically legislates for the construction industry to work towards net zero emissions, there is little other legislation in this area. To meet the targets for 2030, 2035 and beyond, urgent action must be taken.

Achieving these targets will require effort not just from the construction supply chain but from those investing in the built environment. Government departments and other clients will need to set contractual targets and benchmark carbon emissions across the supply chain in order to achieve final projects that meet these targets – as well as to provide a level playing field for those bidding for the work.

The building industry needs to see immediate changes to procurement practices as well as contract conditions if government targets are to be met.

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