New construction techniques are to be implemented by a number of leading construction firms as part of a scheme to reduce the carbon dioxide emissions produced by British infrastructure projects.

Heathrow Airport, National Grid and Skansa will all be taking part in the government scheme, ‘The Infrastructure Carbon Review’, which aims to cut 24 million tonnes of CO2 gasses produced by infrastructure projects by 2050.

The use of new technologies, construction techniques and low-carbon materials will not only cut carbon emissions but also save £1.5 billion per year.

A game-changing initiative for construction sector

According to out-law.com, the review will urge all businesses to prioritise carbon reduction as a ‘core organisational value’, which can be achieved through strong leadership and clear reporting of emission targets.

Commercial Secretary to the Treasury, Lord Deighton and Business and Energy minister, Michael Fallon, told Businessgreen.com that the initiative should ensure that the government and UK-based companies both deliver low-cost and environmentally friendly projects.

Mr Fallon said: “This review makes the business case for carbon reduction in what we build… It has been written by business leaders, not civil servants, and throws down the gauntlet to the construction sector to get behind what could be a game-changing initiative.”

Author: Elizabeth Smythe    Date Written: 6 January 2014