Transitioning to a circular economy can assist in the net-zero transition, with a new report supported by AECOM stating that carbon reductions of up to 50% can be delivered and £35bn generated for the UK economy by using closed-loop materials throughout the design process of infrastructure projects. The AECOM-led Major Infrastructure – Resource Optimisation Group (MI-ROG), has published its latest white paper, outlining the carbon potential of embracing the circular economy in infrastructure and the built environment.
The report found that carbon reductions of around 50% can be achieved by using low-carbon materials throughout the design process. It will also help reduce overhead costs, improve supply chain resiliency and streamline the delivery process by minimising resource use and consumption. Infrastructure is responsible for 16% of the UK’s total carbon emissions, as well as a further 37% attributable to the materials and energy which are required to build, maintain and operate the finished projects. As such, embracing the circular economy can help the UK with its net-zero ambition.
AECOM’s director of sustainable development Robert Spencer said: “Infrastructure is often seen as the backbone of economic recovery, however, to ensure this is done mindfully, with a focus on legacy and resilience, we must encourage Circular Economy principles from the very beginning in both our design approach and delivery. By doing this, we can bring in innovative solutions and materials whilst significantly reducing costs and contributing to a stronger economy and more sustainable relationship with both nature and society.
Source: Edie
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