CLC launches consultation on updated Construct Zero framework

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has launched a public consultation to update its Construct Zero Performance Framework, the UK construction industry’s key mechanism for tracking progress towards net zero.

First introduced at COP26 in Glasgow, Construct Zero has become the sector’s leading industry-change programme, co-ordinating climate action across more than 300 partners, from SMEs to global firms. The initiative is built around nine priorities drawn from the Committee on Climate Change’s 6th Carbon Budget, each supported by metrics that measure progress in reducing emissions across construction, materials, transport, and energy use.

The new consultation seeks views from across the built environment on how these priorities and metrics should evolve in line with the UK’s 7th Carbon Budget, published earlier this year. Stakeholders are invited to submit responses by 17:00 on 17 November 2025. More details are avilable via the CLC website.

According to the CLC, the updated framework will ensure future reports reflect the latest government targets and industry developments, enabling clearer reporting on where progress is being made—and where additional action is required.

Hannah Vickers, Co-Lead for Construct Zero, said: “Construct Zero began as a way to raise awareness of Net Zero in the construction sector. Four years on, nearly 300 partners are driving innovation and growth. Now it’s time for the industry to lead—not just understand. Net Zero isn’t just good for the planet; it’s good for productivity, energy security, and economic growth. It’s good for the country. The next phase is about businesses and clients doing the right thing, regardless of the politics.”

The CLC said the consultation represents a key moment for the industry to help define how progress is measured and reported. “This will be used to share our progress with government and understand where we need to take further action to reach Net Zero,” the Council noted in a statement.

The Construction Leadership Council is a joint initiative between government and industry, co-chaired by Chris McDonald MP, Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, and Mark Reynolds, Executive Chairman of Mace Group. Richard Robinson, Regional President for AtkinsRéalis AMEA, serves as Deputy Co-Chair.

The Council operates twelve workstreams spanning skills and inclusion, building safety, net zero, and business models, all aimed at driving collaboration across the UK construction sector.

Construct Zero – Nine Priorities for Net Zero

1. Retrofit and energy efficiency – Cut carbon through energy-efficient retrofit of existing buildings and homes.
2. Low-carbon construction materials – Increase the use of low-carbon cement, concrete, and steel to reduce embodied carbon.
3. Modern methods of construction – Accelerate offsite manufacturing and design for efficiency to minimise waste.
4. Transport and plant decarbonisation – Transition to zero-emission vehicles and plant across construction sites and supply chains.
5. Renewable energy adoption – Increase use of renewable power on sites and within production facilities.
6. Waste reduction and circularity – Maximise reuse and recycling of materials, reducing landfill waste.
7. Skills for a green economy – Equip the workforce with the capabilities to deliver net zero buildings and infrastructure.
8. Carbon data and transparency – Standardise measurement, reporting, and disclosure of carbon performance.
9. Leadership and collaboration – Embed sustainability in business models, contracts, and procurement to drive sector-wide change.

These priorities will be reviewed and updated in line with the UK’s 7th Carbon Budget following the CLC’s ongoing consultation (closing 17 November 2025).