The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) is set to host a pivotal event titled "Digging for Net Zero: How PAS 2080 Applies to Tunnelling and Geotechnical Engineering" on 25 November 2025. This session aims to provide in-depth insights into the decarbonisation of geotechnical and tunnelling works by applying the internationally recognised PAS 2080 standard for carbon management. The event, organised in collaboration with the British Tunnelling Society (BTS) and the British Geotechnical Association, will showcase real-world applications of the standard in earthworks and new infrastructure delivery, underlining the urgency of aligning civil engineering practices with the UK’s legally binding commitment to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The event will feature a keynote lecture by Lewis Barlow, ICE’s trustee for climate and carbon, with opening and closing remarks delivered by the ICE President, David Porter. Participants will learn how specialised groups like the Net Zero Tunnelling Group, a BTS subgroup, are tailoring the PAS 2080 principles to tunnelling projects. A notable case study to be discussed is National Highways’ application of PAS 2080 on the Lower Thames Crossing project, illustrating the practical integration of carbon management protocols on complex infrastructure developments. Attendees will also be introduced to low-carbon innovations in geotechnical engineering, highlighting emerging technologies and methodologies pivotal for reducing carbon footprints in traditionally carbon-intensive construction processes. The event will culminate in a networking session, fostering industry collaboration and knowledge exchange.

PAS 2080 serves as a globally recognised framework designed to manage and reduce carbon emissions across the entire lifecycle of infrastructure projects, from design and construction to operation and end-of-life. Its 2023 revision expanded scope beyond infrastructure to encompass the entire built environment, adopting a whole-life, systems-thinking approach. This holistic perspective promotes collaborative working, supply chain innovation, and cost reductions while aiding the transition to net zero. Industry leaders such as Galliford Try and WJ Group have recently achieved PAS 2080 certification, demonstrating their commitment to carbon management and sustainable construction practices. Galliford Try’s certification notably reflects its capability to deliver low and net-zero carbon projects across buildings and infrastructure, underpinning the UK’s broader transition ambitions.

Beyond individual projects, broader industry movements are supporting PAS 2080’s widespread adoption. For example, the Net Zero Bridges Group advocates for mandatory carbon emission calculations on infrastructure projects, fostering consistency and accountability by embedding PAS 2080 within procurement and design processes. Similarly, RPS has become the first Irish engineering consultancy verified to PAS 2080, signalling growing international acceptance and the push for integrated sustainability leadership across engineering disciplines.

With infrastructure construction and operation accounting for over 30% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions, the emphasis on PAS 2080 reflects a growing recognition that reducing the carbon intensity of earthworks, tunnelling, and geotechnical engineering is critical. The ICE event offers a vital platform for industry stakeholders to exchange best practices, showcase pioneering approaches, and commit to collaborative efforts that meet the country’s net zero goals while supporting robust infrastructure development for future generations.

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Source: Noah Wire Services