Paving the way forward with low carbon concrete trial

Dyer & Butler, a part of M Group Services' Transport Division, has been working with its client, Heathrow Airport, on a ground-breaking low carbon concrete trial.

The project, which sees Dyer & Butler working alongside Jacobs, Cemex, Ecocem and Ferrovial Construction, aims to explore the viability of lower carbon concrete, which cuts emissions by 50% compared to conventional concrete. It is the first of a number of trials, testing the concrete’s durability and longevity in a true- to- life airport setting.

At least 6% of global carbon emissions each year are linked to concrete production. The innovative concrete solution has the potential to significantly reduce the carbon output of infrastructure projects at the airport. It is hoped that the outcome of these trials can be used to reduce embedded carbon in several of the projects being delivered by Dyer & Butler at Heathrow.

The project involves four different applications trialled in a pouring site close to the control tower. With an aircraft taking off and landing almost every 45 seconds at Heathrow, it is vital the concrete undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its strength and durability can withstand the pressures of being used at one of the world’s busiest airports.

Simon Wright, Regional Manager at Dyer & Butler, said: “As a trusted partner to Heathrow, we’re proud to be collaborating on this project to pioneer carbon reduction in the aviation industry. Our technical delivery team is excited to be involved in trailing this emerging technology. Dyer & Butler is committed to helping Heathrow work towards its net zero targets on this, and future innovations.”

Nigel Milton, Chief of Staff and Carbon at Heathrow, said: “Heathrow is once again serving as a testbed for ground-breaking technologies, demonstrating global leadership with regards to sustainable travel. We’re committed to cutting carbon emissions on the ground as well as in the air and we’re delighted to be hosting one of the first airport trials in the world to test lower carbon alternatives. It’s hoped that this trial could help radically transform the built environment at Heathrow in the years to come.”

Dyer & Butler is committed to finding ways to make its operations more sustainable to ensure a future of safer, greener rail & aviation.