Building the Future: How Low-Carbon Structures Are Shaping London's Skyline

Did you know that the real estate sector produces approximately one-third of the world's CO2 emissions? This is why focusing on developing low-carbon houses in the UK is essential. Moreover, you need to align your activities with the UK government's commitment to become Net Zero by 2050.

Thus, it is necessary to shift our focus from traditional construction methods to modern construction techniques. Let's find out how London is showing us the roadmap to becoming a city with sustainable architecture.

What Are Low-Carbon Structures?

A low-carbon building is a structure that reduces overall carbon emissions. Its primary purpose is to maintain sustainability through efficient planning and design.

To construct low-carbon, sustainable buildings, you will need low-carbon bricks and concrete materials. These buildings are also designed to efficiently use natural resources like light, heat, and water to minimise natural resource waste.

A reliable concrete contractor helps you design and construct a low-carbon building. A capable builder makes a smooth transition from traditional building construction to new building technology effortless.

Notable Low-Carbon Building Projects in London

Let’s see some low-carbon building construction techniques adopted in some renowned buildings in London.

a. The Bloomberg HQ

With a 98.5% BREEAM sustainability score, Bloomberg's European HQ remains the most sustainable office in the UK and probably worldwide. The building has mainly focused on designing a sustainable structure that uses natural resources efficiently. For example, it is designed to harvest rainwater and reuse grey water sources.

Innovative technologies have also been used in the rooms, sensing CO2 and regulating airflow by assuming the number of people there. This will help reduce the energy used to cool the rooms. Moreover, the building uses 500,000 LED lights, saving electricity.

b. The Crystal Building

The Crystal at the Royal Victoria Docks is another building that aims to reduce overall carbon emissions. The main element used in the construction is glass, which helps in insulation and reduces energy consumption.

Moreover, the building design helps harvest rainwater and convert it into potable water. One of the most technologically advanced features of the building is that it runs entirely on electric power. The building design has been done with a focus on utilising renewable power sources. Using solar panels has managed to curb the use of traditional energy sources.

c. 22 Bishopsgate

Creativity and innovation are necessary in constructing buildings with higher sustainability values. 22 Bishopgate in London is living proof of that. A sustainable approach was at the centre throughout the building's foundation to its final touch.

The new building used 50% of the existing foundation, which helped to reduce its carbon footprint. The design of the building is also commendable, as it focuses on using natural light more than other office buildings.

How Concrete Contractors Contribute to Low-Carbon Construction

When you implement sustainable techniques and technologies in your building, you must communicate with the concrete contractor. With the latest knowledge on building construction, the contractor brings expertise to the table. If you have an existing building structure and foundation, a reliable concrete contractor can help you plan a new building while utilising old structures. The result is reduced cost and carbon footprint due to the construction work.

The contractor may also suggest prefabricating concrete walls or columns to reduce on-site construction material waste. A reliable concrete contractor can also help if you want to install LED lighting and reduce energy consumption by increasing the use of solar energy. The most important thing is a collaborative approach between architects, engineers, and proprietors.

Challenges and Opportunities

 As low-carbon buildings provide several benefits to protect the environment, they also have some challenges for widespread adaptation. Firstly, the construction process. The integration of advanced technologies can cost you a significant amount.

 However, the rising demand for sustainable buildings worldwide and in the UK creates the opportunity for more low-carbon buildings. If government incentives are declared with the availability of low-carbon concrete materials, the scenario for sustainable building structures might change to usher in a better future.

Conclusion

Low-carbon or sustainable buildings are examples of creativity and innovation working towards a better future. From building design to construction, these buildings are designed to reduce their carbon footprint and increase the use of renewable energies.

Get in touch with Concrete Contractor London today if you plan to construct a low-carbon building