CARBON BLIND SPOTS

AKERLOF

In their recent report, Akerlof looks into construction industry as being pivotal to global development, contributing significantly to economic growth and infrastructure. However, its environmental footprint is staggering with 25% of the UK’s total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions attributable to the built environment.

The annual embodied carbon emissions stemming from the construction, maintenance, and demolition of buildings equates to 40-50 million tonnes of CO2 – more than emissions from aviation and shipping combined. For the UK to honour its 2030 COP26 commitments or its legally  binding net zero by 2050 target, a substantial reduction in these emissions is a necessity.

To evaluate the industry’s trajectory, Akerlof has reviewed the top 30 UK Tier 1 contractors, evaluating their carbon maturity through comparative analysis using publicly available information such as carbon reduction plans, and annual accounts (predominantly from 2022).

Read more on their website