Why Materials Are Set to Change the Built World

The government has recently reiterated its commitment to investing in renewable and carbon-capture technologies, and while digital tools will certainly revolutionise the planning phases of builds, materials are truly where the benefits will be felt for the UK’s construction industry.

How Can Materials Make an Impact?

1. Environmental Impact

The construction industry has long been hailed as one of the most damaging to the environment, with the carbon footprint of traditional materials such as cement causing harm at every stage of its lifecycle, so modern materials such as green concrete and ashcrete represent a positive step towards Net Zero.

2. Human Impact

The construction industry is suffering a skills shortage with vacancies held across the entire sector, from builders merchants jobs to construction labourers to architects and every stage in between. Modern building materials are lighter and easier to install, meaning they will place less of a physical toll on an ageing workforce, while advancements in digital technologies such as robotics may attract a new generation to the industry.

3. Logistical Impact

Construction projects that do not complete on time and to their specified budget and quality standards have a significant impact, both for the reputation of the construction company and for their next client, whose work will be delayed as a result. Delays and cost increases can occur at any point of the project, from supply of materials to installation difficulties and quality-control failures, so modern sustainable materials can help to shore up the supply chain, deliver consistency and help achieve project milestones.

Fancy a Career in the Industry?

If modern materials are piquing your interest about what a career in construction could herald for you, contact BM Careers to find out how to break into the industry.

You never know – your ideas could be the next pioneering innovation that will help the construction industry to achieve its targets, deliver the next tranche of sustainable homes or improve the resilience of modern infrastructure. So dream big and make sure materials factor into your dreams!