Decarbonisation

Decarbonisation refers to the process of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, a vital objective in limiting global warming to below 2°C, as outlined in the Paris Agreement. In the civil construction sector, achieving decarbonisation means tackling emissions across the entire lifecycle of a project—from material extraction to construction and operational phases.

Key Decarbonisation Strategies in Civil Construction:

• Alternative Building Materials: The use of low-carbon concrete, recycled materials, and innovations such as carbon capture during production can significantly reduce the industry’s carbon footprint.
• Energy Efficiency and Renewables: Implementing renewable energy solutions during construction and incorporating energy-efficient designs into buildings can help reduce ongoing emissions.
• Carbon Offsetting and Capture: Where emissions cannot be eliminated, offsetting through reforestation projects or carbon capture technologies can provide solutions.

Decarbonisation Policies in Australia and New Zealand:

As an example, in Australia, the Transport for New South Wales’ Decarbonising Infrastructure Delivery Policy provides a robust framework for managing embodied carbon in infrastructure projects, setting clear guidelines on how agencies must reduce carbon emissions. Similar policies are emerging across New Zealand, encouraging a shift toward low-carbon solutions in public infrastructure.

You’ll find some of our decarbonisation resources here.