Bouygues UK has successfully delivered a net-zero construction site at the Pentre Awel project in Llanelli, Wales, setting a new benchmark for sustainable building. Through innovative carbon reduction strategies, including the use of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) and on-site renewable energy, the project exemplifies the future of environmentally responsible construction
In a landmark achievement for sustainable construction, Bouygues UK has announced the attainment of net-zero carbon emissions during the construction of Zone 1 of the Pentre Awel development in Llanelli, Wales. This milestone underscores the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility and sets a new standard for the industry.
Innovative Strategies for Carbon Reduction
Throughout the 24-month construction period, Bouygues UK implemented a series of innovative measures to minimize carbon emissions. A pivotal strategy was the exclusive use of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) as an alternative to traditional diesel fuel. Sourced from certified sustainable suppliers, HVO has been instrumental in reducing direct emissions by over 90% on-site. The success of this initiative has prompted Bouygues UK to mandate the use of sustainably certified HVO across all its construction sites nationwide.
In addition to adopting green fuels, the project team focused on energy efficiency. Solar panels were installed to power site offices, cabins, and CCTV systems. During periods without sufficient sunlight, these facilities operated on HVO-powered generators, leading to a 76% reduction in carbon footprint within the first 15 weeks.
Commitment to Sustainability and Biodiversity
Bouygues UK’s dedication to sustainability extended beyond carbon reduction. The company collaborated closely with Carmarthenshire County Council’s ecology officers and Natural Resources Wales to ensure the protection of local ecosystems. Pre-construction ecological surveys informed measures to safeguard species such as reptiles, water voles, otters, nesting birds, and bats. These efforts are projected to result in a 137% net gain in biodiversity upon project completion.
Waste management was another critical focus. Excavated soil was transported to local recycling facilities for segregation, treatment, and reuse, significantly reducing landfill contributions. The project has committed to diverting 98% of its waste from landfill, exemplifying a circular approach to resource utilization.
Recognition and Future Implications
The Pentre Awel project has garnered significant recognition for its environmental initiatives. It received top marks in the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) assessment, scoring 45 out of 45 across criteria including community respect, environmental care, and workforce appreciation. This accolade reflects the project’s exemplary standards in sustainability and social value.
Peter Sharpe, Project Director at Pentre Awel, expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments, stating, “We are immensely proud of this achievement. As well as building a state-of-the-art, top-quality facility, as a project team we set our minds to reducing as much of our carbon emissions as possible.”
The Pentre Awel development, delivered by Carmarthenshire County Council and part-funded by the Swansea Bay City Deal, is poised to become a hub for life sciences, business innovation, community healthcare, and modern leisure facilities. Spanning 83 acres along the Llanelli coastline, it is the largest regeneration project in southwest Wales. The successful implementation of sustainable practices in its construction serves as a model for future developments, demonstrating that environmental responsibility and large-scale infrastructure projects can progress hand in hand.
As Bouygues UK continues to prioritize sustainability across its operations, the lessons learned and strategies employed at Pentre Awel are expected to influence industry practices, paving the way for greener construction methodologies nationwide.