Net Zero 2045
Climate chA nge is the biggest challenge we face
net zero at Srm
Strategy
Performance
Capability
Resources
srm.com
Read more about
our role from our Sustainability Director Simon Richards here
of total UK GHG influenced by the built environment
(UKGBC, 2021)
42%
UK Emissions
Built Environment
Other
The buildings and infrastructure that form our built environment are a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Reducing these emissions and transitioning
to Net Zero poses a significant challenge.
The construction industry has a vital role to play in addressing the climate emergency.
We are placemakers and an industry of problem solvers who can harness our engineering excellence to deliver a built environment fit for our future.
There’s no silver bullet to this issue, and whilst our strategy is ambitious, it reflects the scale of the climate emergency that we all face and have a responsibility to address.
We will not be able to deliver this alone. Engagement and collaboration will be key. We all have a part to play.
Our Net Zero plan has been developed to ensure we take immediate and sustained action as we reach for our 2045 goal. Our aim is to make a positive impact on communities and the environment in which we operate, as we construct a better world for future generations.
OUR CHALLENGE
OUR CARBON PRINCIPLES
Don't Delay
Collaborate
Be Brave
Reduce
Transparency
Don't Delay
Collaborate
Be Brave
Reduce
Transparency
Don’t let the magnitude of the
challenge delay action
Work with the whole of Sir Robert McAlpine and the wider industry
We will have to do things differently and embrace change
Focus on reducing our emissions and long term benefit
We will be open, honest and
transparent always
OUR COMMITMENTS
Read more about the why the SBTi is important from our Company Carbon Manager, Simon Leek
The standard has enabled us to set ambitious and credible science-based Net Zero targets, aligned to our own carbon principles and with the Paris Agreement’s goal of keeping planetary warming to 1.5°C, thus limiting the worst impacts of climate change.
Crucially, our targets include all material sources of direct and indirect emissions, including those of our supply chain, and prioritise deep emission reductions of 90% by 2045. Before permanently neutralising residual emissions in line with SBTi criteria and reaching Net Zero.
We know reaching Net Zero will not be easy, but it’s increasingly clear that we no longer have the luxury of failure.
In the absence of policy and regulation, voluntary standards such as the SBTi’s Net-Zero standard are essential for providing a clear, consistent,
and science-based definition of Net Zero.
OUR TARGETS
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
tCO₂ e
4
3
2
1
Net Zero Emissions
Commence direct emissions (S1&2) offsetting
Neutralise residual value chain emissions
Offset direct (S1&2) emissions
1.5°C aligned emissions pathway
Target year emission reductions within value chain
Emission reductions within value chain
GHG EMISSIONS ACROSS THE VALUE CHAIN BY 2045
NET ZERO
Achieve long term target and neutralise residual emissions of full value chain through the permanent removal and storage of carbon from the atmosphere via the purchase of high quality,
certified removals
NEUTRALISE RESIDUAL VALUE CHAIN EMISSIONS:
During our transition to Net Zero take action to mitigate emissions beyond our value chain by purchasing high quality, certified credits equivalent to our direct scope 1&2 emissions
OFFSET OUR DIRECT SCOPE
1 & 2 EMISSIONS
Reduce absolute scope 1,2 & 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods and services by 90%
2045 LONG TERM TARGET:
Reduce absolute scope 1,2 & 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods and services by 42%
2030 NEAR TERM TARGET:
OUR NET ZERO
ALIGNED PATHWAY
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information@srm.com
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Hemel Hempstead
Hertfordshire
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Sir Robert McAlpine 2023
Registered Office
To be renowned for our work with clients and communities as we construct a better world for future generations.
In order to realise that vision and continue proudly building Britain's future heritage, we want to help lead the transition to Net Zero and develop solutions that address this challenge.
Our vision
It won’t be easy. We know it can’t be achieved alone.
It’s why we developed our carbon principles to guide us
and underpin our Net Zero strategy.
In 2020 we made a commitment to become Net Zero by 2025 for our direct emissions. Halfway towards this milestone, we recognise this isn’t enough.
We will still offset our direct Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 2025; it’s the right thing to do. But claiming Net Zero or carbon neutral status only detracts from the work that still needs to be done. Net Zero must mean more.
It’s why we have become one of the first major construction and engineering companies in the UK to have had its targets approved as Net Zero by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR SCIENCE BASED TARGETS IN FULL
Near-term Targets
Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd commits to reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 42% by FY2030 from a FY2020 base year.* Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd also commits to reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods and services 42% within the same timeframe.
*The target boundary includes
land-related emissions and removals from bioenergy feedstocks.
Long-term Targets
Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd commits to reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 90% by FY2045 from a FY2020 base year.* Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd also commits to reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods and services 90% within the same timeframe.
*The target boundary includes
land-related emissions and removals from bioenergy feedstocks.
Overall net
zero target
Sir Robert McAlpine commits to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions across the value chain by FY2045 from a FY2020 base year.
of our emissions are Scope 3
98%
With transparency a key principle, our footprint has been calculated in line with the GHG protocol corporate value chain standard and independently verified and validated in accordance with ISO14064-1: 2018.
Our approach and methodology has also been reviewed by the SBTi and checked against its Net Zero standard, ensuring a robust, science-based approach has been adopted and that all material sources of emissions, including those of our supply chain, have been calculated as part of our footprint.
Given the significant impact our Scope 3 emissions have, bringing them within scope highlights this impact, and provides the impetus and opportunity to work collaboratively with our value chain to
target reductions.
Our performance
EMISSION REDUCTION INITIATIVES
Implementing initiatives to increase energy efficiency and reduce absolute carbon emissions.
COLLABORATION & INNOVATION
Supporting our clients and supply chain to achieve their own ambitions and drive innovation in low and zero carbon solutions.
OUR PEOPLE
Growing our expertise in delivering low and zero carbon solutions by engaging, training and empowering our people to make a difference.
PROCESS, SYSTEMS & DATA
Embedding carbon reduction into our decision making and ensuring the efficiency, accuracy and transparency of the data we collect.
All vehicles covered by our Sustainable travel policy to be ULEVs.
All company cars to be electric.
Review our commercial fleet and plant renewal plans.
Review energy strategies for all our non-leased offices and plant yards.
Develop and undertake energy efficiency drives.
Implement minimum carbon standards on all our projects.
Commit to the Climate Groups SteelZero and ConcreteZero initiatives.
Gain verification of our Net Zero Carbon targets by the SBTi.
rocure all elecricity on tariffs using 100% certified renewable energy.
Require the use of HVO fuel in all suitable plant and equipment.
2030
2027
2024
2023
ONGOING
Develop and roll out an in-use assessment for use by our clients on our projects.
Continue to grow our expertise in delivering Net Zero Carbon assets.
Collaborate with internal functions to fully transition to a NZC business.
Support industry initiatives to decarbonise and standardise our approach.
Implement a value chain engagement strategy to engender collaboration.
Share our knowledge, expertise and lessons learnt with our clients, peers and supply chain.
Invest, trial and upscale innovative low and zero carbon materials.
2025
ONGOING
Install EV charging across our non-leased offices and sites.
Develop an engagement campaign that challenges projects to reduce carbon.
Develop and undertake an employee commuter survey.
Embed carbon reduction requirements within all job roles and responsibilit-ies.
Continue the roll out of our carbon literacy programme to key disciplines.
Continue to support our multi-disciplinary Resource Efficiency Task Force.
Continue to support our multi-disciplinary Carbon Task Force .
Support remote working technology and flexible working.
Promote the use of SRMdrive, our ULEV car leasing scheme.
2025
2024
2023
ONGOING
Develop and implement a certified PAS2080 carbon management system.
Set embodied carbon benchmarks (kgCO2e/m2) on all projects.
Adopt our embodied carbon process on all projects.
Develop a carbon offsetting and removal strategy.
Embed carbon in our project governance process.
Step down our Net Zero targets to our sectors, monitor performance and set an internal price on carbon.
Implement our data improvement programme.
Maintain third party verification of our data.
2025
2024
2023
ONGOING
Our Net Zero action plan has been developed to ensure we take immediate and sustained action as we drive for
Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions across our value chain by 2045.
OUR ACTION PLAN
Total Scope 3 emissions
(tCO2e)
Reduction in absolute Scope 3 emissions
21%
2020
2023
2024
370,776
367,129
292,886
SCOPE 3 EMISSIONS
This has been driven by transitioning from a spend based approach to material specific quantities and emissions for key materials such as concrete and steel, and our efforts to procure low carbon concrete and steel, our 2 biggest carbon hotspots.
We've reduced our Scope 3 emissions by 21%. This is a result of improved accuracy in our purchased goods and services category.
reduction in absolute emissions
76%
Total Scope
1 and 2 emissions
market based (tCO2e)
2020
2024
6,305
6273
1,539
SCOPE 1 & 2 EMISSIONS
We've reduced our Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 76% since 2020.
This performance is driven by electrification of energy sources, the continued roll-out of renewable electricity tariffs and transition fuel, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO), as a replacement for more
carbon-intensive diesel.
reduction in absolute Scope 1, 2 & 3
carbon emissions
22%
We’ve made good progress to date, having reduced total Scope 1, 2 & 3 emissions by 22% since 2020.
Scroll down for a detailed breakdown of our Scope 1,2 & 3 emissions performance.
Total Scope
1, 2, and 3 emissions
market based (tCO2e)
2020
2024
377,080
294,425
Target 1.5 aligned emission pathway
Total scope 1,2 & 3 emissions - market based (t CO2e)
SCOPE 1, 2 & 3
CARBON EMISSIONS
Scope 1 & 2 Breakdown
2020
4%
Other
20%
Electricity
Market
Based
23%
Gas
52%
Diesel
Scope 1 & 2 Breakdown
2024
15%
Other
18%
Gas
24%
Electricity
Market Based
42%
Diesel
Scope 3 Breakdown
2020
2%
Other
11%
Other
89%
Purchased goods
& services
Scope 3 Breakdown
2024
4%
Purchased goods
& services
(non-product)
12%
Other
88%
Purchased goods
& services
CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR SCIENCE BASED TARGETS IN FULL
CLICK HERE TO SEE FULL BREAKDOWN
Other (Kerosene, HVO, F-Gas, Company Car)
CLICK HERE TO SEE FULL BREAKDOWN
Other (capital goods, fuel and energy related activities, upstream transport and distribution, waste, business travel, employee commuting, investments)
ICE carbon champion at Oxford
click to find out more
Click to find out more about Gradels
A platform approach & Net Zero at The Forge
click to find out more
Click to find out more about The Forge
Innovative low carbon concrete at 1 Broadgate
click to find out more
Click to find out more about low carbon concrete
Design Group deliver low carbon solutions click to find out more
Click to find out more about MDG/Healthcare
Designing out carbon at 1 Centenary Way
click to find out more
Click to find out more about
1 Centenary way
Net Zero at 100 Liverpool Street
click to find out more
Click to find out more about 100 Liverpool Street
Transition to low carbon fuel
click to find out more
Click to find out more about HVO fuel
Life Cycle Assessment at Edinburgh Park
click to find out more
Click to find out more about Edinburgh Park
Saved 203 tCO2e through alternative timber roof design
Saved 100 tCO2e by using UK Ancaster limestone
A feasibility study to explore alternative construction methodologies and coverings for the main roof reduced embodied carbon by 203 tCO2e by switching to a glue laminated timber structure with tessalted aluminium tiles. Other carbon reduction measures included: replacing cement in the piled foundations and substructure with ground granulated blast slag (GGBS) - saving 433 tCO2e and UK Ancaster limestone for cladding - saving 100 tCO2e. During construction the project also utilised a 100% renewable energy backed tariff and encouraged staff to use park and ride services.
The successful carbon-saving initiatives at Gradel College, Oxford earned the project ICE Carbon Champion status.
ICE Carbon Champion status at Oxford
8% less steel and 13% less concrete compared to baseline
Fully electric, EPC 'A' and NABERS 5-star rated building
The approach maximises the efficiency of materials and minimises waste, with externally validated claims showing 8% less steel and 13% less concrete compared with a business-as-usual baseline. The Forge is also the first commercial building to be both constructed and operated in line with the UKGBC’s ‘Net Zero Carbon’ buildings framework. The building delivered a 38% embodied carbon (A1-A5) saving, initiatives included: optimised concrete mix designs and post consumer reclaimed raised access floor utlised in lieu of new – saving 497 (A1-A3) tCO2e. The building is fully electric, achieving an 'A' EPC rating and is expected to achieve a 5-star NABERS UK rating once fully operational.
The Forge is the world's first major commercial building to be designed and built using the platform approach to Design for Manufacture and Assembly (P-DfMA).
Platform approach & Net Zero Carbon at The Forge
20% reduction in embodied carbon (A1-A3) through the use of AACMs
43% reduction in the average carbon intensity of concrete mixes
Working with our supply chain, we developed this further in a later phase of piling to specify EcoPact Max concrete, an innovative cement alternative technology from Aggregate Industries that utilises alkali activated cementitious materials (AACMs) and high levels of GGBS (95%) to remove the need for any cement at all. This resulted in a 20% reduction in embodied carbon (A1-A3) compared to a typical mix, saving 356 tCO2e.
At 1 Broadgate, we increased the amount of Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBS) content in the hard and soft piles to 70% and 95% respectively, with the soft pile mix a specially developed low carbon solution containing less than 12.5 kg cement per m³ of concrete.
Innovative low carbon concrete
77% reduction in embodied carbon (A1-A3) at Kingsway & Chesterfield hospitals
54% reduction in embodied carbon (A1-A3) at the National Rehabiliation Center
A prime example is our work on three healthcare schemes at Kingsway Hospital, Chesterfield Hospital and the National Rehabilitation Centre. At Kingsway and Chesterfield Hospitals, MDG’s alternative foundation designs reduced embodied carbon by up to 77%, saving over 1,000 tCO2e on each project. At the National Rehabilitation centre, embodied carbon was reduced by 54%, saving 538 tCO2e.
Our in-house design experts, McAlpine Design Group (MDG), embody our desire and capability to deliver low carbon solutions for our clients.
Design Group deliver low carbon solutions
64% steel frame recycled content
40% reduction in embodied carbon (A1-A3)
We worked with our supply chain partners to identify and install a steel frame solution which delivered a significant reduction in embodied carbon and had the added benefit of increasing the head height clearance on each floor. Our alternative solution increased the recycled content of the steel to 64%. Embodied carbon emissions decreased by 40%, 36% and 10% for the Whole Life Carbon Assessment stages A1 to A3, A1 to A5 and A to D, respectively.
By applying our expertise to scrutinise the design of our One Centenary Way project in Birmingham, we were able to deliver significant carbon reductions.
Designing out carbon at One Centenary Way
32% of existing frame reused (3,435 tCO2e saving)
49% of existing foundations & slabs reused (4086 tCO2e saving)
Carbon reduction was a primary driver, and from the outset of the design concept, the team looked to retain and reuse as much of the existing building as possible. This was coupled with design solutions focused on reducing the embodied carbon of the major building packages, like concrete and steel. The combination of these measures dramatically reduced the environmental impact of the building, which has gone on to win multiple industry accolades.
100 Liverpool Street was our client British Land’s first Net Zero Carbon development. Buy-in from everyone involved in the project helped our team deliver exceptional results.
Delivering British Land’s first Net Zero Carbon project
1 million litres of HVO fuel used to date.
2,500 tCO2e saved
We've used more than 1 million litres of HVO fuel on our projects, saving 2,500 tCO2e. And we've transitioned more than 50% of our vehicle fleet to run on HVO, with plans in place to increase this to around 80% by the end of 2023. On our A19 Highway Maintenance project we've saved 175 tCO2e alone by identifying plant and vehicles which could switch to HVO from diesel.
With alternative fuels such as Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO), reducing CO2 emissions by up to 90%, we're using them as a key transition fuel on our decarbonisation journey.
Transition to low carbon fuels
Over 1,000 tCO2e saved
Reuse of materials, optimised
concrete mixes & low carbon aluminium
The report detailed our methodology and inputs, along with the carbon savings realised and carbon emissions associated with the project at practical completion (upfront carbon – A1-A5) and end of life (life cycle embodied carbon - A1-A5, B1-B5 & C1-C4). We also captured lessons learnt from the process to improve the efficiency and accuracy of assessments on future projects. Supported by our reporting procedures, tools, and supply chain relationships, we ensured the assessment included: quantity and type of material/product delivered and intalled including project specific Environmental Product Declarations (EPD), transport distances for materials and products, fuel, electricity and water consumption and waste generated during construction.
At Edinburgh Park, we used our in-house capability to undertake an as-built Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of the carbon emissions for our client at completion.
As-built life cycle assessment at Edinburgh Park
CASE STUDIES
Scope 1 emissions: direct emissions from sources owned or directly controlled by the organisation e.g., use of fuel in SRM plant
Scope 2 emissions: indirect emissions from purchased energy e.g., electricity we use
Scope 3 emissions: indirect emissions that are a consequence of our activities but arise from sources that are not owned or directly controlled by us e.g. embodied carbon of materials.
Science based pathway / target: trajectory/target to achieve global Net Zero emissions based on scientific evidence.
1.5°c aligned pathway: emissions are reduced in line with a 1.5°c warming scenario/budget. The scientific consensus is that we must limit global warming to 1.5°c or below to limit the worst impacts of climate change.
Net Zero: Permanently neutralising any residual emissions at the net-zero target year and any emissions released into the atmosphere thereafter. Residual emissions can not exceed 10% of baseline year emissions.
Residual emissions: emissions that remain after taking all possible actions to implement emissions reductions.
Carbon removal: permanent withdrawal and storage of carbon from the atmosphere as a result of deliberate human activities.
Carbon offset: emissions reduction or removal resulting from an action outside the organisations boundary used to counterbalance the organisations residual emissions.
Greenhouse gases: Greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as Carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) are gases in the earth's atmosphere that trap heat.
Life cycle assessment: A procedure to quantify carbon emissions (embodied and operational) and other environmental impacts (such as acidification and eutrophication) through the life stages of a building. The EN 15978 standard is typically used to define the different life cycle stages.
Embodied carbon: The carbon emissions associated with the extraction and processing of materials, the energy and water consumption used by the factory in producing the products, transporting materials to site, and constructing the building. As well as the carbon emissions associated with the ‘in-use’ stage (maintenance, replacement, and emissions associated with refrigerant leakage) and ‘end of life’ stage (demolition, disassembly, and disposal) of the building over its lifecycle.
Carbon Reduction Plan
(PPN 06/21)
Pathway to Net Zero
Tags
Sustainability at SRM
reduction in Scope
1 & 2 emissions
60%
1/1
2020
Signed supply agreement for HVO fuel and began rolling out to our projects
2/2
Committed to
the Science Based
Targets initiative
(SBTi) business
ambition for 1.5°c
1/2
2021
22%
reduction in Scope
1, 2 & 3 emissions
4/4
86%
of electricity supplied
by a 100% renewable energy tariff
3/4
Submitted
our emission reduction targets
to the SBTi for validation
2/4
Launched our
electric vehicle
car scheme
1st diesel-free site
1/4
2022
Net Zero targets
validated by
the SBTi
2/2
Committed to the
climate groups
SteelZero and
ConcreteZero
initiatives
1/2
2023
Energy efficiency
drives undertaken
3/3
Minimum carbon
standards including
low carbon site set
up implemented on
all our projects
2/3
Publish our
offsetting strategy
1/3
2024
100%
of Scope 1 & 2 emissions will be offset
5/5
30%
of concrete we specify and procure will meet the ConcreteZero low embodied carbon concrete threshold
4/5
All fuel used in
our plant and equipment to be HVO
3/5
All electricity to be procured on REGO backed renewable energy tariffs
2/5
Embodied carbon benchmarks set and
monitored against
on all our projects
1/5
2025
42%
reduction in absolute Scope
1, 2 and 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods and services
5/5
50%
of the steel we specify
or procure will be from manufacturers who are responsible steel certified or from a site with science based targets our
4/5
of the concrete we specify
or procure will meet the ConcreteZero low embodied carbon concrete threshold
50%
3/5
of company cars to be
an electric vehicle
100%
2/5
of vehicles covered by our sustainable travel policy to be an Ultra low Emission Vehicle (ULEV)
100%
1/5
2030
All residual
emissions offset through certified removal schemes
4/5
reduction in absolute
Scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG
emissions from purchased goods and services
90%
3/5
of the steel we specify
or procure will be
Net Zero
100%
949 3811 9761
2/5
of the concrete we specify
or procure will be net zero
100%
1/5
2045
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
2030
2045
MILESTONES ACHIEVED
TARGET MILESTONES
OUR PATHWAY TO NET ZERO
Low carbon site establishment
Low carbon plant
& equipment
Plant
Whole market solutions
Strategic framework suppliers
Market testing
Full supply chain traceability
Procurement &
supply chain
Efficient
temporary works
Low carbon structures
Concrete innovation
Passivhaus
Design Group
Whole Life Carbon solutions
Optimized environmental strategies
Soft landings – operated as designed
Building
Services
Low carbon design and systems
Whole Life Carbon solutions
Key supply chain relationships
Facades
Life Cycle Assessments
As built embodied carbon data
low carbon lead, advice & support
PAS2080 aligned
carbon management
Sustainability
Plant
Procurement & Supply Chain
Design Group
Building Services
Facades
Sustainability
Our integrated centres for excellence deliver low carbon solutions for our clients and projects at all stages of the project lifecycle:
Our capability
Accessibility Tool
Performance
Strategy
Capability
Resources
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
2030
2045
Sustainability
Sustainability
Facades
Facades
Building Services
Building Services
Design Group
Plant
Plant
Procurement & Supply Chain
Procurement & Supply Chain
Resources
Key Definitions
Year
Resources
Carbon Reduction Plan
(PPN 06/21)
Pathway to Net Zero
Key Definitions
Key Definitions
Scope 1 emissions: direct emissions from sources owned or directly controlled by the organisation e.g., use of fuel in SRM plant
Scope 2 emissions: indirect emissions from purchased energy e.g., electricity we use
Scope 3 emissions: indirect emissions that are a consequence of our activities but arise from sources that are not owned or directly controlled by us e.g. embodied carbon of materials.
Science based pathway / target: trajectory/target to achieve global Net Zero emissions based on scientific evidence.
1.5°c aligned pathway: emissions are reduced in line with a 1.5°c warming scenario/budget. The scientific consensus is that we must limit global warming to 1.5°c or below to limit the worst impacts of climate change.
Net Zero: Permanently neutralising any residual emissions at the net-zero target year and any emissions released into the atmosphere thereafter. Residual emissions can not exceed 10% of baseline year emissions.
Residual emissions: emissions that remain after taking all possible actions to implement emissions reductions.
Carbon removal: permanent withdrawal and storage of carbon from the atmosphere as a result of deliberate human activities.
Carbon offset: emissions reduction or removal resulting from an action outside the organisations boundary used to counterbalance the organisations residual emissions.
Greenhouse gases: Greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as Carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) are gases in the earth's atmosphere that trap heat.
Life cycle assessment: A procedure to quantify carbon emissions (embodied and operational) and other environmental impacts (such as acidification and eutrophication) through the life stages of a building. The EN 15978 standard is typically used to define the different life cycle stages.
Embodied carbon: The carbon emissions associated with the extraction and processing of materials, the energy and water consumption used by the factory in producing the products, transporting materials to site, and constructing the building. As well as the carbon emissions associated with the ‘in-use’ stage (maintenance, replacement, and emissions associated with refrigerant leakage) and ‘end of life’ stage (demolition, disassembly, and disposal) of the building over its lifecycle.
Climate change is the biggest challenge we face
Discover how we are addressing it
TOP
EMISSION REDUCTION INITIATIVES
Implementing initiatives to increase energy efficiency and reduce absolute carbon emissions.
COLLABORATION & INNOVATION
Supporting our clients and supply chain to achieve their own ambitions and drive innovation in low and zero carbon solutions.
OUR PEOPLE
Growing our expertise in delivering low and zero carbon solutions by engaging, training and empowering our people to make a difference.
PROCESS, SYSTEMS & DATA
Embedding carbon reduction into our decision making and ensuring the efficiency, accuracy and transparency of the data we collect.
All vehicles covered by our Sustainable travel policy to be ULEVs.
2030
All company cars to be electric.
2027
Review our commercial fleet and plant renewal plans.
Review energy strategies for all our non-leased offices and plant yards.
Develop and undertake energy efficiency drives.
Implement minimum carbon standards on all our projects.
2024
Commit to the Climate Groups SteelZero and ConcreteZero initiatives.
Gain verification of our Net Zero Carbon targets by the SBTi.
2023
Procure all elecricity on tariffs using 100% certified renewable energy.
Require the use of HVO fuel in all suitable plant and equipment.
ONGOING
Develop and roll out an in-use assessment for use by our clients on our projects.
2025
Continue to grow our expertise in delivering Net Zero Carbon assets.
Collaborate with internal functions to fully transition to a NZC business.Support industry initiatives to decarbonise and standardise our approach.
Support industry initiatives to decarbonise and standardise our approach.
Implement a value chain engagement strategy to engender collaboration.
Share our knowledge, expertise and lessons learnt with our clients, peers and supply chain.
Invest, trial and upscale innovative low and zero carbon materials.
ONGOING
Install EV charging across our non-leased offices and sites.
2025
Develop an engagement campaign that challenges projects to reduce carbon.
2024
Develop and undertake an employee commuter survey.
Embed carbon reduction requirements within all job roles and responsibilit-ies.
Continue the roll out of our carbon literacy programme to key disciplines.
2023
Continue to support our multi-disciplinary Carbon Task Force .
Continue to support our multi-disciplinary Carbon Task Force .
Support remote working technology and flexible working.
Promote the use of SRMdrive, our ULEV car leasing scheme.
ONGOING
Develop and implement a certified PAS2080 carbon management system.
Set embodied carbon benchmarks (kgCO2e/m2) on all projects.
Adopt our embodied carbon process on all projects.
2025
Develop a carbon offsetting and removal strategy.
2024
Embed carbon in our project governance process.
2023
Step down our Net Zero targets to our sectors, monitor performance and set an internal price on carbon.
Implement our data improvement programme.
Maintain third party verification of our data.
ONGOING
Our Net Zero action plan has been developed to ensure we take immediate and sustained action as we drive for Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions across our value chain by 2045.
OUR ACTION PLAN
Accessibility Tool
Go to srm.com
368,843
2023
1,714
2023
Scope 1 & 2 Breakdown
2023
15%
Other
24%
Gas
17%
Electricity
Market Based
45%
Diesel
Scope 1 & 2 Breakdown
2023
Other
24%
Gas
17%
Electricity
Market Based
45%
Diesel
15%
Scope 3 Breakdown
2023
16%
Other
84%
Purchased goods
& services
Scope 3 Breakdown
2023
16%
Other
84%
Purchased goods & services (product)
368,843
2023
1,714
2023
SRM has been partnered with digital solutions provider Dalux since 2018, and since its release in Q3 2023, SRM has been rolling out the Dalux ‘Quantities’ function on all projects. This tool enables streamlined 3D model-based quantification and estimation of construction materials.
Project-based staff can now easily extract quantity information from live designs to inform embodied carbon analysis, target setting, and the embedment of carbon in our decision-making process. The tool is helping us deliver lower carbon outcomes and with greater certainty of the results.
An essential part of embodied carbon assessments and optioneering is having access to up-to-date and precise material quantity information.
Company-wide implementation of Dalux ‘Quantities’
We've used more than 1.9 million litres of HVO fuel on our projects to date, saving over 5,000 tCO2e. We acknowledge the challenges and risks associated with the use of HVO, and have worked hard to ensure the provenance of our supply meets our ethical and responsible sourcing requirements.
With alternative fuels such as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), reducing CO2 emissions by up to 90%, we're using them as a key transition fuel on our decarbonisation journey.
Transition to low carbon fuels
1.9 million litres of HVO fuel used to date
5,000 tCO2e saved
The HPU from GeoPura uses green hydrogen to generate zero-emission electricity, offering a sustainable plug and play alternative to diesel generators. With only water and heat as by-products. The week-long trial generated nearly 6,000 kWh, saving 8 tCO2e, 56kg NOx and 2 kg Particulate Matter, compared to a diesel equivalent. Noise levels were also reduced, due to quieter operation of the HPU.
Overall, the trial proved hydrogen technology as a safe and viable alternative for projects that lack access to a permanent electricity supply but are looking to achieve zero-emission site power.
Our plant department in Kettering has been trialling the use of a cutting-edge Hydrogen Power Unit (HPU) to deliver Net Zero power.
Green Hydrogen trial
Material passports are digital documents detailing a building’s components, characteristics, and materials. They provide vital information that helps track the materials used during construction, such as specific concrete mixes, façade components, and steelwork origins. This data supports the reuse and repurposing of materials, promoting a circular economy and reducing waste and carbon emissions.
The project received an innovation credit under BREEAM for this initiative – utilised as part of the project strategy for BREEAM Outstanding. The initiative also won the ‘Delivering Sustainability with Digital Innovation’ accolade at the 2024 Digital Construction Awards.
1 Broadgate stands out as the first large-scale project to implement a digital-led material passport process.
Material Passports at 1 Broadgate
Our Three Chamberlain Square project in central Birmingham has demonstrated this by utilising a lean post-tensioned concrete structural frame and an innovative off-site prefabrication approach to the drylining works. Reducing material use, waste and emissions.
By reducing material use and reducing waste, the project is currently on track to achieve an embodied carbon result of just 479 kgCO2e/m2 (A1-A5), an exceptionally low figure for an entirely new building, along with BREEAM Outstanding and NABERS 5* accreditations.
Using less material as an industry is fundamental to reducing emissions.
Material efficiency at 3 Chamberlain Square
The approach maximises the efficiency of materials and minimises waste, with an estimated 18% less steel and 13% less concrete compared to a traditional solution. The development won the Innovation award at the 2024 BCO (British Council for Offices) Awards.
The Forge is also the first commercial building to be both constructed and operated in line with the UKGBC’s ‘Net Zero Carbon’ buildings framework. The building delivered an estimated 38% embodied carbon (A1-A5) saving compared to the project’s Stage 3 ‘BAU’ baseline. The building is also fully electric, achieving an 'A' EPC rating and is expected to achieve a 5-star NABERS UK rating once fully operational.
The Forge is the world's first major commercial building to be designed and built using the platform approach to Design for Manufacture and Assembly (P-DfMA).
Platform approach & Net Zero Carbon at The Forge
At our 100 Liverpool Street project, we retained approximately one third of the pre-existing structural steel frame. At 1 Broadgate, we sensitively dissembled 140 tonnes of structural steelwork from the existing asset to be re-used in another London development. Lastly, at 2 Finsbury Avenue, we identified 98 structural steel beams that could be disassembled from the existing asset and reused within the newly constructed development – saving approximately 43 tonnes of CO2e (A1-A3).
At our Broadgate framework with British Land, we have minimised our demand for new steelwork through engineering excellence.
Retained and Reclaimed Steel
Basalt comparatively reduces carbon emissions by ~60% (A1-A3) compared to steel. It is also significantly lighter and requires no hot works, improving health and safety on our sites.
We have been utilising basalt reinforcement in lieu of steel within our projects temporary works This includes basalt reinforced temporary guide walls at 2 Finsbury Avenue and temporary foundation pads at our Align JV at HS2.
Basalt Fibre Reinforcement
At a project in central London, we have been utilising a 100% Portland cement free mortar for internal masonry blockwork walls. The ‘Cemfree’ mortar provides embodied carbon savings of around ~70% (A1-A3) compared to industry leading Portland cement-based mortars. The mortar is also considered easier to clean off and remove, therefore a greater potential for blockwork to be reused when the walls are eventually demolished.
At a project in central London, we have been utilising a 100% Portland cement free mortar for internal masonry blockwork walls.
Cement Free Masonry Mortar
At our National Gallery 200 Welcome Project, we successfully coordinated the careful removal of pre-existing architectural grade glass and returned it a UK glass manufacturer for recycling into new glazing products, helping reduce emissions in the factory.
One of the barriers to lower carbon glazing products is the lack of high-quality post-consumer cullet returning to production facilities.
Glazing Recycling at The National Gallery
A newly BS 8500:2023 compliant ternary blend cement (CVI-SL) was introduced for self-compacting concrete and visual concrete mixes. This reduced the Portland cement content, whilst also reducing reliance on GGBS as a cement replacement, by incorporating limestone filler as a ternary blend. The change helped reduce embodied carbon on the project whilst improving the availability of GGBS in the market.
The Museum of London team collaborated with the supply chain to reduce the embodied carbon of concrete used on site, whilst also reducing reliance on GGBS in accordance with the latest low carbon industry guidance.
Ternary Blend Cement at The Museum of London
The new low carbon concrete has a carbon footprint following industry BSI PAS2050 calculation rules that gives a 62% reduction in CO2e per cubic metre of concrete, compared to a standard CEMI concrete, meeting the same specification in the same raw materials. The mixes trialled used up to 90% supplementary cementitious material (SCM) with an alkali activated cementitious material conforming to BS EN197.
At HS2’s Align consortium – a joint venture between Sir Robert McAlpine, Bouygues Travaux Publics, and VolkerFitzpatrick – we trialled the use of an ultra-low-carbon concrete with manufacturer Tarmac for the floor slab and parts of the walls for a pre-cast factory.
Align trial innovative low carbon concrete
The materials we exchange through the platform are assigned a digital resources passport, providing a comprehensive material identity which can be tracked and traced through the supply chain – ensuring accountability and transparency. The platform helps our projects increase the number of reclaimed materials used in our works and maximise the reuse of waste generated on our sites.
We recognise the importance of the circular economy in mitigating climate change. All our projects have access to the Excess Materials Exchange (EME) platform, this digital matching platform connects companies in the construction sector, enabling them to identify, exchange, and repurpose excess materials transforming potential waste into valuable resources.
Excess Materials Exchange
The typical nature of power consumption on construction sites means peaks and troughs are common. However, this also means generators are often oversized due to the misconception of incorporating greater power to meet start-up demand. By understanding the load profile and any patterns or timings, we can optimise the use of BESS, and integrate the best generator and BESS combination to reduce fuel costs and emissions.
We partnered with specialist Aggreko to analyse five live tower cranes for emissions and fuel savings utilising smaller generators, BESS, and more sustainable fuels. Our projects achieved an 85% reduction in emissions across the five tower cranes with Aggreko’s BESS after rightsizing generators. That is equivalent to more than 234 tonnes of CO2 and 87,300 litres of fuel saved.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
Our PAS 2080 accredited carbon management system rewards our sites for utilising electric machinery instead of plant with internal combustion engines. This can reduce carbon emissions whilst also creating a healthier work environment for site operatives and reducing nuisance to our local communities.
An example being our Barkers of Kensington site in central London, through consultation our supply chain used a plethora of electric machinery such as electric telehandlers, electric mini-excavators, electric wheel dumpers, electric mini-dumpers and a number of electric robotic breakers.
Electric Site Machinery at Barkers of Kensington
The engineers at MDG found that the proposed solution could be significantly refined saving cost, time and materials, plus the associated embodied carbon reduced through the saved materials. The MDG optimised design reduced steel usage by over 18 tonnes and eliminated 150 metres of associated welding – this intervention saved a comparative 41tCO2e (A5).
The McAlpine Design Group (MDG) were employed by The Westbury Hotel project team to check the efficiency and efficacy of an earth retention proposal.
Optimised Temporary Works at The Westbury Hotel
This was achieved through a focus on passive measures, such as cooling exposed concrete soffits as thermal mass and fresh air ventilation. The building is all-electric with renewable power generated partly via a rooftop PV array. We also used our in-house capability to undertake an as-built embodied carbon assessment for our client at completion. This aided the carbon quantification of the structurally efficient concrete frame, lean finishes and optimised concrete mix designs – helping capture achievements and aid lessons learned.
Our multi-award winning 1 New Park Square office building in Edinburgh achieved one of the best office energy performance certificates recorded in Scotland – with an EPC of ‘A -03’.
Low Carbon Performance at 1 New Park Square (supersede Edinburgh Park)
Select the circles below to read the case studies.
CASE STUDIES
TOP
Company-wide implementation of Dalux ‘Quantities’
Transition to low carbon fuels
Green Hydrogen
Trial
Material Passports at 1 Broadgate
Material efficiency at
3 Chamberlain Square
Platform approach & Net Zero Carbon at The Forge
Retained and Reclaimed Steel
Basalt Fibre Reinforcement
Cement Free Masonry Mortar
Glazing Recycling at The National Gallery
Ternary Blend Cement at The Museum of London
Align trial innovative low carbon concrete
Excess Materials Exchange
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
Electric Site Machinery at Barkers of Kensington
Optimised Temporary Works at The Westbury Hotel
We’ve become one of the first Tier 1 contractors to meet the PAS 2080:2023 standard for both our buildings and infrastructure divisions. This certification demonstrates that we have the systems, processes and capability to manage net-zero aligned performance on our projects throughout their lifecycles.
Our carbon management system
Sir Robert McAlpine have delivered an exceptional carbon management system which has secured the verification of PAS 2080:2023. This is a real achievement, supporting carbon reduction across their built environment portfolio of projects.
Matthew Pygott
Lead Verifier, Hydrock Ltd
Our carbon management system has several benefits for projects, including:
Ensuring carbon implications are considered alongside cost, programme and quality when project decisions are made – drawing on robust data and relevant experience
Creating a framework for collaboration within project teams and the wider value chain – eliciting effective ideas at the right time and making sure everyone understands their responsibilities
Giving clients confidence in the delivery of net-zero aligned carbon targets and the associated sustainability accreditations desired
SRM has been partnered with digital solutions provider Dalux since 2018, and since its release in Q3 2023, SRM has been rolling out the Dalux ‘Quantities’ function on all projects. This tool enables streamlined 3D model-based quantification and estimation of construction materials.
Project-based staff can now easily extract quantity information from live designs to inform embodied carbon analysis, target setting, and the embedment of carbon in our decision-making process. The tool is helping us deliver lower carbon outcomes and with greater certainty of the results.
An essential part of embodied carbon assessments and optioneering is having access to up-to-date and precise material quantity information.
Company-wide implementation of Dalux ‘Quantities’
We've used more than 1.9 million litres of HVO fuel on our projects to date, saving over 5,000 tCO2e. We acknowledge the challenges and risks associated with the use of HVO, and have worked hard to ensure the provenance of our supply meets our ethical and responsible sourcing requirements.
With alternative fuels such as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), reducing CO2 emissions by up to 90%, we're using them as a key transition fuel on our decarbonisation journey.
Transition to low carbon fuels
5,000 tCO2e saved
1.9 million litres of HVO fuel used to date
The HPU from GeoPura uses green hydrogen to generate zero-emission electricity, offering a sustainable plug and play alternative to diesel generators. With only water and heat as by-products. The week-long trial generated nearly 6,000 kWh, saving 8 tCO2e, 56kg NOx and 2 kg Particulate Matter, compared to a diesel equivalent. Noise levels were also reduced, due to quieter operation of the HPU.
Overall, the trial proved hydrogen technology as a safe and viable alternative for projects that lack access to a permanent electricity supply but are looking to achieve zero-emission site power.
Our plant department in Kettering has been trialling the use of a cutting-edge Hydrogen Power Unit (HPU) to deliver Net Zero power.
Green Hydrogen trial
Material passports are digital documents detailing a building’s components, characteristics, and materials. They provide vital information that helps track the materials used during construction, such as specific concrete mixes, façade components, and steelwork origins. This data supports the reuse and repurposing of materials, promoting a circular economy and reducing waste and carbon emissions.
The project received an innovation credit under BREEAM for this initiative – utilised as part of the project strategy for BREEAM Outstanding. The initiative also won the ‘Delivering Sustainability with Digital Innovation’ accolade at the 2024 Digital Construction Awards.
1 Broadgate stands out as the first large-scale project to implement a digital-led material passport process.
Material Passports at 1 Broadgate
Our Three Chamberlain Square project in central Birmingham has demonstrated this by utilising a lean post-tensioned concrete structural frame and an innovative off-site prefabrication approach to the drylining works. Reducing material use, waste and emissions.
By reducing material use and reducing waste, the project is currently on track to achieve an embodied carbon result of just 479 kgCO2e/m2 (A1-A5), an exceptionally low figure for an entirely new building, along with BREEAM Outstanding and NABERS 5* accreditations.
Using less material as an industry is fundamental to reducing emissions.
Material efficiency at 3 Chamberlain Square
The approach maximises the efficiency of materials and minimises waste, with an estimated 18% less steel and 13% less concrete compared to a traditional solution. The development won the Innovation award at the 2024 BCO (British Council for Offices) Awards.
The Forge is also the first commercial building to be both constructed and operated in line with the UKGBC’s ‘Net Zero Carbon’ buildings framework. The building delivered an estimated 38% embodied carbon (A1-A5) saving compared to the project’s Stage 3 ‘BAU’ baseline. The building is also fully electric, achieving an 'A' EPC rating and is expected to achieve a 5-star NABERS UK rating once fully operational.
The Forge is the world's first major commercial building to be designed and built using the platform approach to Design for Manufacture and Assembly (P-DfMA).
Platform approach & Net Zero Carbon at The Forge
38% embodied carbon reduction
18% less steel,
13% less concrete
At our 100 Liverpool Street project, we retained approximately one third of the pre-existing structural steel frame. At 1 Broadgate, we sensitively dissembled 140 tonnes of structural steelwork from the existing asset to be re-used in another London development. Lastly, at 2 Finsbury Avenue, we identified 98 structural steel beams that could be disassembled from the existing asset and reused within the newly constructed development – saving approximately 43 tonnes of CO2e (A1-A3).
At our Broadgate framework with British Land, we have minimised our demand for new steelwork through engineering excellence.
Retained and Reclaimed Steel
Basalt comparatively reduces carbon emissions by ~60% (A1-A3) compared to steel. It is also significantly lighter and requires no hot works, improving health and safety on our sites.
We have been utilising basalt reinforcement in lieu of steel within our projects temporary works This includes basalt reinforced temporary guide walls at 2 Finsbury Avenue and temporary foundation pads at our Align JV at HS2.
Basalt Fibre Reinforcement
At a project in central London, we have been utilising a 100% Portland cement free mortar for internal masonry blockwork walls. The ‘Cemfree’ mortar provides embodied carbon savings of around ~70% (A1-A3) compared to industry leading Portland cement-based mortars. The mortar is also considered easier to clean off and remove, therefore a greater potential for blockwork to be reused when the walls are eventually demolished.
At a project in central London, we have been utilising a 100% Portland cement free mortar for internal masonry blockwork walls.
Cement Free Masonry Mortar
At our National Gallery 200 Welcome Project, we successfully coordinated the careful removal of pre-existing architectural grade glass and returned it a UK glass manufacturer for recycling into new glazing products, helping reduce emissions in the factory.
One of the barriers to lower carbon glazing products is the lack of high-quality post-consumer cullet returning to production facilities.
Glazing Recycling at The National Gallery
A newly BS 8500:2023 compliant ternary blend cement (CVI-SL) was introduced for self-compacting concrete and visual concrete mixes. This reduced the Portland cement content, whilst also reducing reliance on GGBS as a cement replacement, by incorporating limestone filler as a ternary blend. The change helped reduce embodied carbon on the project whilst improving the availability of GGBS in the market.
The Museum of London team collaborated with the supply chain to reduce the embodied carbon of concrete used on site, whilst also reducing reliance on GGBS in accordance with the latest low carbon industry guidance.
Ternary Blend Cement at The Museum of London
The new low carbon concrete has a carbon footprint following industry BSI PAS2050 calculation rules that gives a 62% reduction in CO2e per cubic metre of concrete, compared to a standard CEMI concrete, meeting the same specification in the same raw materials. The mixes trialled used up to 90% supplementary cementitious material (SCM) with an alkali activated cementitious material conforming to BS EN197.
At HS2’s Align consortium – a joint venture between Sir Robert McAlpine, Bouygues Travaux Publics, and VolkerFitzpatrick – we trialled the use of an ultra-low-carbon concrete with manufacturer Tarmac for the floor slab and parts of the walls for a pre-cast factory.
Align trial innovative low carbon concrete
The materials we exchange through the platform are assigned a digital resources passport, providing a comprehensive material identity which can be tracked and traced through the supply chain – ensuring accountability and transparency. The platform helps our projects increase the number of reclaimed materials used in our works and maximise the reuse of waste generated on our sites.
We recognise the importance of the circular economy in mitigating climate change. All our projects have access to the Excess Materials Exchange (EME) platform, this digital matching platform connects companies in the construction sector, enabling them to identify, exchange, and repurpose excess materials transforming potential waste into valuable resources.
Excess Materials Exchange
We partnered with specialist Aggreko to analyse five live tower cranes for emissions and fuel savings utilising smaller generators, BESS, and more sustainable fuels. Our projects achieved an 85% reduction in emissions across the five tower cranes with Aggreko’s BESS after rightsizing generators. That is equivalent to more than 234 tonnes of CO2 and 87,300 litres of fuel saved.
The typical nature of power consumption on construction sites means peaks and troughs are common. However, this also means generators are often oversized due to the misconception of incorporating greater power to meet start-up demand. By understanding the load profile and any patterns or timings, we can optimise the use of BESS, and integrate the best generator and BESS combination to reduce fuel costs and emissions.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
An example being our Barkers of Kensington site in central London, through consultation our supply chain used a plethora of electric machinery such as electric telehandlers, electric mini-excavators, electric wheel dumpers, electric mini-dumpers and a number of electric robotic breakers.
Our PAS 2080 accredited carbon management system rewards our sites for utilising electric machinery instead of plant with internal combustion engines. This can reduce carbon emissions whilst also creating a healthier work environment for site operatives and reducing nuisance to our local communities.
Electric Site Machinery at Barkers of Kensington
The engineers at MDG found that the proposed solution could be significantly refined saving cost, time and materials, plus the associated embodied carbon reduced through the saved materials. The MDG optimised design reduced steel usage by over 18 tonnes and eliminated 150 metres of associated welding – this intervention saved a comparative 41tCO2e (A5).
The McAlpine Design Group (MDG) were employed by The Westbury Hotel project team to check the efficiency and efficacy of an earth retention proposal.
Optimised Temporary Works at The Westbury Hotel
Select the circles below to read the case studies.
CASE STUDIES
This spend-based approach uses Environmentally-Extended Input-Output data which align to US dollars. This highlights the importance of moving away from a spend-based approach and demonstrates the benefits that our data improvement programme will provide in 2023 and beyond.
This spend-based approach uses Environmentally-Extended Input-Output data which align to US dollars. This highlights the importance of moving away from a spend-based approach and demonstrates the benefits that our data improvement programme will provide in 2023 and beyond.