The climate emergency is a global challenge that demands globally responsible solutions. Yet, when specifying structural materials, decisions are often made with a narrow focus – aimed at reducing emissions at the project level, even if this inadvertently increases emissions elsewhere.
This issue is central to the Institution’s cross-industry research on constrained materials, including the use of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) in concrete and ferrous scrap in steel production. These studies highlight the need to consider the broader impact of material choices.
The three papers presented here set out the Institution’s position on the use of concrete, steel and timber in ways that minimise greenhouse gas emissions on a global scale. Each paper explores the relationship between these materials and emissions, and offers guidance on how emissions can be reduced through both design and specification.
These papers do not address other sustainability concerns such as human rights or biodiversity, nor do they advocate for the use of one material over another in specific contexts. Instead, they provide clear recommendations around carbon emissions – both for designers and policymakers – seeking to make informed, globally responsible decisions.