As net zero targets draw closer, the construction industry must continue to adapt and develop new ways to address its contribution to reducing GHG emissions.  

• How is the industry performing against its goals? 
• What are the strategies that can most effectively secure a more sustainable future for Ireland’s construction sector? 
• Building materials: The next frontier for decarbonisation

Innovation is one of the key levers the construction industry has to achieve decarbonisation. Disruptive solutions are here now and they’re ready to scale! We have fantastic technology at our disposal to support our efforts to become more environmentally conscious. The discussion revealed exciting opportunities for us to innovatively use the technology we have already to create more solutions. How an AI-informed approach make it faster, easier and cheaper to decarbonise real estate

The circular economy is often misunderstood. It’s not simply about waste reduction but is an economic model that challenges us to revolutionise the linear way we currently operate. This roundtable discusses the what, the why and the how of the circular economy 

• Driving sustainability through procurement and circular economy: the crucial role of procurement strategies, incentivisation, and circular economy principles in promoting sustainability within the construction industry. 
• Exploring innovative procurement models that prioritise sustainability and value, emphasising the adoption of circular economy principles. 
• The challenges and opportunities in shifting procurement thinking towards carbon-friendly solutions, including the role of government incentives. 
• Examining the dual responsibility of businesses and government entities in driving progress towards net-zero carbon goals through collaborative efforts. 
• Sharing strategies to foster circular economy practices within the construction sector, aiming to reduce waste and promote resource efficiency. 
• Exploring potential strategies to mitigate challenges and ensure compliance with sustainability standards while promoting sustainable development practices through procurement. 
• Analysing the importance of government incentives in driving net-zero progress and fostering collaboration between businesses and government entities to accelerate sustainability initiatives. 

From 2028, the new Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) will make the measurement of ‘whole life carbon’ (embodied plus operational carbon) mandatory for large buildings. And all buildings will have to measure and limit embodied carbon from 2030. But, given the scale of new construction envisioned in Ireland between now and 2030, it’s critical we start much sooner: 

• Life Cycle assessment and carbon accounting 
• The Revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive will require member states to regulate the embodied carbon of buildings for the first time -Embodied carbon v operational carbon;  measuring and mitigating impact 
• Whole life carbon analysis – from materials sourcing to demolition 
• Carbon offsetting and certification: LEED, BREEAM & other rating systems 

This panel explores the factors inhibiting the widespread adoption of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), including barriers to implementation, management challenges, governmental strategies, and financing concerns.