Latest Innovations in Environment

These include examples of innovative activity, which demonstrate constructors protecting and enhancing the environment.


Post Tensioned Slab Design

Published 8 October 2025 | No comments
Written by Jack Endean
CategoriesCarbon reduction Conserve of resources Lower embodied carbon content materials Modern methods of construction
On this project they have implemented post-tensioned concrete construction to extend existing reinforced concrete slabs. Post-tensioned concrete is one of the most efficient and sustainable types of concrete construction, using 15% less concrete and up to 40% less steel than an equivalent traditional reinforced concrete flat slab. Prioritising low-carbon strategies, the original 1980’s reinforced concrete frame and existing facade are...

Solartainer Versatile Glycerine

Published 8 October 2025 | No comments
Written by Jack Endean
CategoriesCarbon reduction Conserve of resources Energy efficient plant and equipment
Solar hybrid power system using a Glycerine generator as a fuel source for the backup generator. Glycerol is a waste product which the UK currently exports to Europe to be processed. This organisation take the glycerine and use it as a fuel source instead of diesel or HVO. Air emissions are greatly reduced with this fuel source improving local air...

Rebar Buddy

Published 15 September 2025 | No comments
Written by Jack Endean
CategoriesCarbon reduction Controls Lower embodied carbon content materials Positive reinforcement for good safety practices
This contractor has implemented a recycled alternative for rebar protection. With a cradle-to-cradle feature, these are designed to be sustainable and environmentally friendly from the ground up. Made with materials that are not only durable and reliable, but also recyclable and reusable. This means that once the product has served its purpose, it can be recycled and used again to...

Hiper Pile Impression Piling Methodology

Published 15 September 2025 | No comments
Written by Jack Endean
CategoriesCarbon reduction Lower embodied carbon content materials Modern methods of construction
This contractor has implemented the ‘hiper pile’ which reduces embodied carbon by reducing the amount of concrete required to maintain the load bearing capacity of the pile. This permits shorter pile foundations which reduces the amount of spoil on site. Being reduced in depth also reduces the risk of augering into water bearing strata. Material volume is reduced by an...

Integrated Weather App

Published 12 August 2025 | No comments
Written by Jack Endean
CategoriesEmergency preparedness Investigation for environmental events Provide updates regarding plan delivery and benefits
This contractor has developed a concept app that provides a S.M.A.R.T approach to project-based weather reporting. Planning and Risk Management around the weather, especially with the diverse UK climate, could have been a challenge when sequencing works at a major infrastructure hub. This challenge has been negated via the Digital Control Centre, where historical and forecast weather data is combined...

Brick Buddy Safety System

Published 12 August 2025 | No comments
Written by Jack Endean
CategoriesConserve of resources Modern methods of construction
This contractor has implemented a multi award winning bracing system that their bricklaying contractors have brought with them on the development. This is a more simpler way and safer way of backing up party wall brick walls with an actual system, instead of using timbers and blocks, this also saves on materials by having an actual design which is quick...

Bat Friendly Roof Breather Membrane

Published 12 August 2025 | No comments
Written by Jack Endean
CategoriesDefined plan to protect and enhance the natural environment Identification of flora, fauna and natural resources Protect the local environment Protection of existing natural habitat
This contractor has implemented a bat-friendly breather membrane for the roof. Bats are a protected species in the UK and play an important role in the ecosystem. Until now when bats are found, only Bitumen 1F felt has been used. This has come at considerable cost to the thermal performance of the roof because 1F felt requires extra rafter space...

Temporary Reusable Bracing

Published 3 July 2025 | No comments
Written by Jack Endean
CategoriesCarbon reduction Lower embodied carbon content materials Modern methods of construction
This contractor has used modular temporary bracing systems that are fully reusable and adaptable for most structures, significantly reducing the tonnage of steel work required. This modularisation system enhances sustainability, safety, and efficiency. The standard design saves bespoke details and fabrication requirements, allowing standard attachments to suit various projects with different frame sizes, geometry and connection types. It also removes...

Remote Controlled Cantilever Lifting Beam

Published 3 July 2025 | No comments
Written by Jack Endean
CategoriesCoaching for unsafe actions Controls Modern methods of construction
In order to safely install elements of the unitised facade system beneath a concrete frame climbing screen system the project identified and implement the successful use of a WiFi remote controlled cantilever lifting beam. This specialist lifting equipment reduced the risk of working at height and manual handling potential risks by being able to place loads closer to their final...

Tracked Scissor Lifter

Published 16 June 2025 | No comments
Written by Jack Endean
CategoriesControls Energy efficient plant and equipment
This contractor is using a tracked scissor lift capable of driving at different levels with each track and also at different slopes whilst maintaining a self levelling platform. This equipment is new to the industry and the contractor has carried out a case study for the equipment to allow for enhancements moving forward including, but not limited to future electric...

Flameless Electrically Controlled Compound Heater

Published 16 June 2025 | No comments
Written by Jack Endean
CategoriesCarbon reduction Modern methods of construction
This contractor is using an electrically controlled, compound heater (Epot) which has been designed for the melting and heating of modern bituminised rubber compounds (hot-melt) used in structural roofing and waterproofing installations. With fast heat up and melting times, and controllable, user-friendly features the Epot avoids the safety and quality control issues arising from the use of gas fired pots....

Circular Packaging Solution

Published 16 June 2025 | No comments
Written by Jack Endean
CategoriesCarbon reduction Circular economy Conserve of resources Monitoring and recording of resource usage
Collaborating with one of their suppliers, this contractor has developed a solution to the packaging waste being produced on construction projects. Ecopak is a modular system comprising inner and outer polypropylene packaging that can be reused multiple times, allowing for the packaging of mixed types of lighting product and comes with GPS tagging so products can be tracked digitally following...

ERICA Boards Installed

Published 14 May 2025 | No comments
Written by Jack Endean
CategoriesConserve of energy Energy efficient plant and equipment Monitoring and recording of resource usage
ERICA boards help the contractor prevent energy wastage using a power monitoring and control system. The system understands and knows where and when energy is being used and highlights opportunities to prevent energy wastage. ERICA = Energy, Reduction, Information, Control, Automation. They have done this by exchanging the generator for more efficient equipment such solar hybrid battery units as well...

Passive Eel Pass

Published 14 May 2025 | No comments
Written by Jack Endean
CategoriesEnvironmental champion Identification of flora, fauna and natural resources Protect the local environment
This contractor has implemented a passive eel pass that will ensure a consistent flow rate without any manual or electrical operations. The operation will be monitored, with the aim of using the data collected for similar projects. The eel pass exit comprises a floating articulating swivel pipe which can adapt to seasonal variations in water level. The novel adaptability is...

EV Pump and Agitator for CFA Piling

Published 14 May 2025 | No comments
Written by Jack Endean
CategoriesCarbon reduction Conserve of energy Energy efficient plant and equipment
This contractor implemented the world’s first fully electric drilling ancillary support and concrete supply setup to the piling rig. This groundbreaking system combined the use of all renewable mains electricity powered air compressor to assist boring, and mains electrically powered concrete agitator and pump, eliminating three diesel engines from the standard process and significantly reducing fuel consumption to provide concrete...

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