What we measure
Our net zero commitment encompasses not just direct scope 1 and scope 2 emissions (associated with fuels and energy use), but also select scope 3 emissions, going further than most net zero carbon targets in the sector.
Our scope 3 emissions include water consumption, staff transport (across road, rail and air), emissions arising from using hotels, emissions from third party fuel and energy use and all well-to-tank (upstream) emissions associated with scope 1 and scope 2 emissions. We have significant influence over all these emissions sources.
The whole industry needs to challenge itself, work together, and assist its clients and supply chain to make faster progress too. There is no room for or advantage in disguising or hiding performance.
Vague data is useless, so science based, transparent information and a healthy dose of honesty are part of the medicine.
The Government’s Construction Playbook sets out a manifesto for how the industry needs to behave to achieve net zero. Much of our ability to achieve net zero will depend on having good data but also collaborative relationships with all members of the value chain.
That will help improve the trust in our sector, and the integrity of what we report. It will help us focus on what needs to be done and, in short, assist us reach net zero.
We reduced our direct emissions intensity by 20% this year compared to the same period last year, mitigating the release of 7 kilotons of carbon. This performance along with our investment in data collection and analysis has enabled us to confidently set our new ambitious 2026 target.
It is the openness and transparency of our reporting that is essential to get us all to net zero and accelerate the decarbonising of the UK’s built environment.
