Applying the Carbon Hierarchy to Geotechnical ContractorsÂ-Video

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Video Summary

The presentation proposes using a carbon hierarchy to guide decarbonisation in geotechnical companies. Adapted from IEMA’s framework, it prioritises eliminating emissions—for example, reusing foundations or avoiding cement and steel—then reducing emissions through more efficient designs and operations. Next comes substituting high-carbon materials and fuels, followed by capturing or offsetting remaining emissions. The approach applies beyond construction sites: functions such as human resources, procurement, maintenance and IT can also reduce their carbon impact. The speaker cautions against focusing only on innovative low-carbon materials, emphasising that eliminating and reducing emissions can deliver greater savings and that everyone in a company has a role.

Keywords

carbon hierarchy

decarbonisation

geotechnical companies

emissions reduction

low-carbon materials