Agenda 3 - Use Less

The climate crisis compels all of us—individuals, communities, and institutions—to reconsider how we shape and steward our environment. In the UK, the built environment accounts for nearly 30% of total carbon emissions. Local authorities and community organisations have a unique opportunity to lead by example, shaping more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive places.

At Incremental, we partner with clients across the public and community sectors to set ambitious, actionable sustainability goals. Through a holistic, evidence-based approach, we help deliver low-carbon buildings that are both environmentally responsible and economically viable.

We are proud supporters of the Architects Climate Action Network (ACAN) —a collaborative industry initiative working to bring the construction sector within planetary boundaries. By aligning our work with this roadmap, we ensure that sustainability is not just a feature of our projects, but a fundamental principle.

Our expertise is grounded in decades of practical and theoretical knowledge in green construction. From community centres and infrastructure to housing and civic buildings, we’ve successfully translated sustainability principles into built outcomes across a range of scales.

We prioritise the use of biogenic materials and healthy construction practices, which not only reduce environmental impact but also support new, meaningful architectural expressions. Every project is approached with a deep sense of responsibility, aiming to make the most of natural resources while creating spaces that reflect and strengthen the identity of the communities they serve.

We invite local authorities, housing associations, and community partners to collaborate with us in shaping a built environment that contributes to a healthier planet and stronger, more connected communities.

We offer expert guidance and delivery across a range of sustainable building practices, helping clients meet current standards and exceed environmental expectations:

1. Sustainable Materials & Resource Planning
   – Advice on biogenic, low-carbon, and locally sourced materials
   – Support for reuse, recycling, and circular construction principles

2. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
   – Comprehensive environmental impact assessments across a building’s life span
   – Third-party verified sustainability certifications

3. Regulatory Compliance & Strategic Guidance
   – Navigation of current UK regulations and funding requirements
   – Expertise in Passivhaus, PAS 2035, and retrofit standards

4. Low-Energy and Passive Design
   – Designing for ultra-low energy demand and operational efficiency
   – Passive heating, cooling, and daylighting strategies to reduce energy bills

5. Modular & Local Construction Solutions
   – Prefabricated and modular systems to speed up delivery and reduce waste
   – Emphasis on local suppliers and trades to support regional economies

The construction industry contributes around 25% of the UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions, driven largely by the widespread use of high-carbon materials such as concrete and steel. This presents a significant challenge, but also a clear opportunity for change.

In line with the UK Government’s Net Zero Strategy and the ambitions of the Construction Playbook, shifting towards sustainably sourced timber and other low-carbon materials is critical to reducing the sector’s environmental impact. These materials not only lower embodied carbon but also support the delivery of healthier, more energy-efficient buildings.

Forward-thinking local authorities and community-led developers can play a vital role by prioritising low-carbon design, supporting the principles of the Future Homes Standard, and encouraging circular economy practices in both new builds and retrofit projects. Sustainable timber construction, in particular, offers a scalable pathway to meeting environmental targets while promoting regional supply chains and skilled local labour.