What's Happening?
Engineering consultancy Curtins has published its latest embodied carbon data for the 2025/26 period, showcasing its commitment to transparency and low-carbon design in the built environment. The data, derived from over 500 projects, provides insights
into the upfront embodied carbon for new-build projects across various sectors. Higher Education projects are leading with an average of 128 kgCO₂e/m², significantly below the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard (UKNZCBS) 2030 target. Commercial offices and healthcare buildings also perform well, while residential projects exceed the target, indicating a need for innovation. Curtins has achieved an 11% reduction in embodied carbon since setting its targets in 2022, aiming for a 15% reduction by 2030.
Why It's Important?
The publication of this data is crucial as it supports knowledge sharing and benchmarking, promoting carbon reduction as a key measure of project success. Curtins' progress in reducing embodied carbon reflects a broader industry trend towards decarbonization, which is essential for meeting climate goals. The data highlights areas where further innovation is needed, particularly in residential projects, to meet future targets. By joining initiatives like Innovate UK's AMC for Low Carbon Concrete, Curtins is actively contributing to the development of low-carbon solutions, which is vital for the construction industry's transition to sustainability.
What's Next?
Curtins plans to continue its efforts in reducing embodied carbon through early-stage design influence, material efficiency, and whole-life carbon assessment. The firm emphasizes the need for collective action across the supply chain to achieve significant carbon reductions. As part of its commitment, Curtins has joined the Engineers Reuse Collective to promote material and structural reuse. These steps are expected to accelerate the adoption of low-carbon solutions and support the industry's shift towards a more sustainable future.
