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Any carbon emissions we produce are balanced (cancelled out) by removing the equivalent amount from the atmosphere, which is known as net zero. When the amount of carbon emissions we add is equal to the amount we remove, we will have achieved net zero.
Achieving net zero is best accomplished by cutting emissions as much as feasible. Burning coal, gas, and oil for transportation, manufacturing, and residential purposes releases greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO2). By retaining the sun’s energy in our atmosphere, these gases contribute to warming temperatures and shifting climates.
Therefore, we must lessen our dependency on them. However, not all emissions can be completely eliminated. By taking out an equal amount, we can balance out those that are left. This makes it possible for industries like construction, which would be challenging to achieve net zero emissions, to continue operating while being compensated for by other industries where it is simpler to cut emissions or find energy-saving alternatives.
By 2050, the UK is well on its way to becoming a net-zero country. It is now legally required to achieve net zero by this date.
Approximately 40% of the UK’s total carbon emissions come from the built environment and construction sector. This indicates that the building sector can play a significant role in assisting the United Kingdom in achieving net zero.
According to the UK Green Building Council, existing buildings may be responsible for up to 95% of emissions from the built environment over the next 30 years. Much of the industry’s decarbonisation efforts will be focused on upgrading existing buildings.
New buildings will also have to be highly energy-efficient. The way they are built is also crucial. Modern building techniques and the expertise needed to accomplish them will grow more widespread and significant.
Compliance with environmental standards is required for new and retrofit projects, and local and national governments prioritise sustainable development. Being green can result in increased work and money.
Long-term cost savings are a common outcome of sustainable building strategies. For instance, energy-efficient buildings are less expensive to operate, which can be advantageous to both you and your clients.
Going Net Zero creates new business opportunities. As the push for net zero grows, businesses that invest in sustainable skills and technology can enter new industries such as green building, renewable energy, and sustainable development.
A construction business can be future-proofed by adopting sustainable practices and skills. Businesses that embrace new technologies and practices will prosper as awareness rises.
As workers increasingly look for employers who share their values and career goals, businesses that invest in sustainable skills may be able to draw in and retain a more skilled and driven team.
The CITB supports training for Net Zero, such as long-term qualifications like NVQs supported by the CITB grants and funding.
The list below can be included in a CITB Skills and training fund application – while there’s an initial outlay, once the claim is processed and reimbursed by CITB, your training becomes effectively free. This allows you to invest in employee development without impacting your bottom line.
Leadership & Management (Support Strategic Net Zero Goals)
For businesses looking to lead sustainability from the top, these qualifications help develop managers who can drive cultural change, green procurement, and energy-efficient site practices.
Insulation & Building Treatments (Reduce Energy Loss in Existing Buildings)
The biggest environmental gains come from retrofitting the UK’s aging building stock. These NVQs help upskill teams to install energy-saving solutions like insulation and damp-proofing.
Waterproofing & Sub-Structure Work (Improve Energy & Structural Efficiency)
These roles help buildings stay dry, efficient, and durable — a critical part of sustainable construction.
Roofing & Cladding (Support Low-Energy Building Design)
Modern roofing and cladding techniques can drastically reduce heat loss and improve building performance — essential for both new builds and retrofits.
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