Institution news
Please can you briefly explain your role and involvement in construction plant
Lauren Brown (LB): I am the Sustainability Specialist at Hinkley Point C (HPC), which is the first new nuclear power station to be built in the UK in over 20 years and one of the largest construction projects in Europe. Needless to say, we require a lot of plant! Ensuring that we utilise the most efficient options we can is really important.
What do you think is the number one challenge for organisations looking to reduce vehicle emissions in the construction industry?
LB: It can be a balancing act when trying to choose vehicles which are low emission, competitively priced and can deliver the same power or requirements as conventional options. However, this is a rapidly growing market and new innovations are always arising.
What would you say is the technology to watch when it comes to construction plant development?
LB: Hydrogen.
What breakthroughs in terms of technology do we need for a cost-effective and net-zero construction sector in the future?
LB: Improved battery technology, quicker grid connectivity and utilisation of green/pink hydrogen production on site will allow the construction sector to move away from a reliance on fossil fuels.
Do you think we can reduce emissions by using current plant more efficiently?
LB: It definitely helps. Promoting behaviour changes when it comes to vehicle idling, and implementing good preventative maintenance plans are just some of the approaches which can make a real difference.
Why is it so important for construction professionals to attend this conference?
LB: This is a field which is constantly changing, with innovative new products coming to market. Staying well informed and sharing best practice through conferences such as this are key to meeting net-zero on construction sites.
Construction Plant 2022 takes place on 28 June 2022 at One Birdcage Walk, the Institution’s London HQ
Presentations from vehicle and plant OEMs (including Volvo, Caterpillar, JCB and Liebherr) will outline new technologies and novel powertrains to increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, covering on-road mobile machinery, cranes, mining equipment, generators and much more.
These will be supported by case studies of recent construction projects across the UK from leading contractors and plant hire organisations, together with lessons learned and best practice for achieving more sustainable operations.
Visit the event website to find out more and to book your place: www.imeche.org/constructionplant2022.