Highways England has set a set of zero-zero target dates to help achieve the UK’s goal of a zero-zero economy by 2050. Central to its plans is to have zero-zero motorway construction and maintenance work by 2040. Highways England said that It has “an important opportunity to catalyze Britain’s construction industry to deliver on the Climate Change Committee’s call to substantially decarbonize the construction industry by 2040”. The government-controlled agency is one of the UK’s largest clients of the construction industry. To hit the target, some key materials must be close to zero or clear, including asphalt, steel, and cement. To help promote low-carbon options, Highways England will provide building partners with data on the carbon content of the materials used. The Thames Lower Crossing will be used as a testing ground for low-carbon innovations. The guidance will also be passed through the supply chain, with a projected net zero for construction plant and vehicles on England’s motorway schemes by 2030. Road improvements and maintenance have also been named as areas to reduce carbon emissions, and Highways England highlighted their work in the recently completed A590 scheme. In Cumbria, where emissions have been reduced by 40 per cent. In addition, the agency has pledged to have its own operations zero-zero by 2030. Transport Minister Rachel MacLean said: “We know transport is the biggest carbon emitter, which is why I am pleased to see that Highways England has put together a roadmap that will It cleans our air as we build greener.” Alasdair Reisner, CEO of the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) said: “Our members recognize their responsibilities to protect current and future generations from the impact of climate change. Building and maintaining our roads naturally plays a key role in achieving our net zero goals.” In addition, Highways England said it aims to expand the capacity of the existing road network and keep new construction to a minimum through the Smart Motorway initiative. And on Wednesdays and Thursdays this week, Construction News will hold its second virtual conference on the industry’s path to net-zero. Places for delegates to attend Decarbonising Construction 2021 are still available. Bam Construct is the event’s Gold Sponsor. It will offer a live session in addition to hosting a virtual booth for delegates to gain insights into the use of digital technologies to accelerate improvements in carbon emissions.
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