Reducing emissions in construction with sustainability

Introduction

The construction industry plays a critical role in shaping modern infrastructure, but its environmental footprint is significant. It accounts for 37% of global emissions, making it one of the biggest contributors to climate change. (UNEP)

Emissions come from multiple sources: the energy used in buildings (operational emissions) and the production of materials like concrete, steel, and glass (embodied carbon). With global demand for buildings rising, the industry must find ways to reduce its impact. Sustainable materials, energy-efficient practices, and digital solutions like eco-shaper can help companies monitor and cut their carbon footprint.

The two main sources of emissions in construction

1. Operational emissions: The energy consumption of buildings

Once a building is in use, its energy demand for heating, cooling, lighting, and appliances generates operational emissions. Buildings account for 28% of global energy-related CO₂ emissions, largely due to fossil fuel-based electricity and inefficient energy management. (WorldGBC)

To reduce operational emissions, buildings must be designed with:

• Energy-efficient insulation and ventilation to lower heating and cooling needs
• Smart energy systems that optimize consumption in real time
• Renewable energy sources like solar panels and geothermal heating
• Retrofitting older buildings to improve efficiency instead of demolishing and rebuilding

2. Embodied carbon: The hidden footprint of building materials

Embodied carbon refers to the emissions generated before a building is even in use—during the extraction, processing, transportation, and installation of materials. It makes up around 11% of global energy-related emissions and is particularly high in materials like cement, steel, and glass. (WorldGBC)

High-emission materials in construction:

• Cement: Used in concrete, it alone is responsible for 7.5% of global CO₂ emissions
• Steel: A key structural material with high energy-intensive production
• Glass & Aluminum: Require large amounts of energy in manufacturing

Sourcing low-carbon alternatives and recycled materials is essential to lowering embodied carbon.

Sustainable solutions for the construction industry

1. Green building materials & circular construction

A shift toward sustainable materials can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of new buildings. Some promising alternatives include:

• Low-carbon concrete: Innovations like geopolymer cement and carbon-capturing concrete significantly reduce emissions
• Mass timber: A renewable, lightweight alternative to concrete and steel
• Recycled and repurposed materials: Using reclaimed steel, bricks, and wood instead of virgin materials

Additionally, circular construction focuses on designing buildings with recyclable and reusable materials, reducing the need for constant new resource extraction.

2. Digital tools for carbon management & reporting

Accurately tracking emissions is a challenge for many construction companies. eco-shaper provides a digital solution that enables companies to:

• Measure Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, including embodied carbon from suppliers
• Identify high-emission materials and make informed choices
• Streamline compliance with sustainability regulations and industry standards

Having access to real-time emissions data allows businesses to take proactive steps toward sustainability.

3. Energy-efficient design & retrofitting

Many cities are introducing Net Zero Building requirements, meaning new structures must produce as much energy as they consume. Some key energy-efficient strategies include:

• Passive house design: Maximizing natural heating, cooling, and lighting
• Energy storage solutions: Storing surplus solar and wind energy for later use
• Building automation systems: Smart sensors that optimize energy use based on occupancy

For existing buildings, retrofitting is often a more sustainable approach than demolition and reconstruction. Improving insulation, replacing inefficient systems, and upgrading windows can drastically cut operational emissions without the embodied carbon cost of a new build.

The role of regulation & industry collaboration

Governments worldwide are tightening regulations on construction emissions. Carbon taxes, stricter building codes, and incentives for green construction are pushing companies to adopt low-carbon solutions.

Platforms like eco-shaper help businesses stay ahead of regulatory changes by tracking supplier emissions and ensuring compliance with sustainability standards. This data-driven approach is becoming essential as industries face increasing pressure to report and reduce their carbon footprint.

Conclusion

The construction industry is at a turning point, without intervention, its emissions will continue to rise. But through sustainable materials, energy-efficient design, and innovative digital tools like eco-shaper, businesses can take meaningful action toward reducing their impact.

By embracing these strategies, the industry can build a greener future while maintaining growth and innovation.