Construction industry positioned to meet net zero by 2050

Autodesk, the Australian Constructors Association, Consult Australia, and the Infrastructure Sustainability Council have released a joint report to support the construction industry in reaching net zero.

The report, A net-zero future delivered through our infrastructure pipeline, signals that a whole-of-business, systems-based approach across asset lifecycles is required to accelerate the journey to net zero. This includes pulling key levers such as procurement, materials, methodologies, technology, and people capability.

Australian Constructors Association Chief Executive Officer, Jon Davies, said the record investment in infrastructure creates opportunities for the construction industry to be part of the solution to net zero.

“We all have a role to play, and it must be performed in partnership. The report sets out the options and enablers for government and industry to use in mapping the path to low-carbon, climate-resilient infrastructure,” Davies said.

The report identifies tools that map key enabling levers against asset lifecycle phase, as well as a net-zero delivery model to prompt and guide decision-making

The report also presents real-world case studies to inspire project teams to utilise, adapt, scale and accelerate further innovation. Technology is also identified as a key enabler of decarbonisation.

Autodesk ANZ Regional Director, Andy Cunningham, said technology supports the infrastructure industry with the tools they need to unlock insights, make better decisions, and achieve superior outcomes.

“Software helps automate complex processes and transform data into actionable insights that empower innovators to improve the impact of everything they design, make, own, and operate. Cloud solutions and connected data environments fuel innovation—across technology, processes, supply chains, and industries. This opportunity is only accelerating,” Cunningham said.

The release of the framework follows the COP26 climate talks which called for accelerated decarbonisation before 2030 to keep global temperature within 2-degree limits, and preferably to 1.5 degrees.

Consult Australia CEO, Nicola Grayson, said strong leadership and collaboration across the industry is going to be required to achieve accelerated net zero and keep our sector globally competitive.

“Net zero is a shared responsibility. Through the collective members of the Australian Constructors Association, Consult Australia and the Infrastructure Sustainability Council, in collaboration with Autodesk, we are committed to working with industry and government stakeholders to drive the continuous improvement required to achieve this shared outcome. We look forward to working together to take action at scale and at pace,’’ Grayson said.