The construction industry is at the forefront of the global sustainability movement, with increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions, enhance energy efficiency and adopt environmentally responsible building practices.
At IKO, we recognise the urgent need to balance modern construction demands with long-term environmental responsibility. That’s why our approach integrates innovation, collaboration and sustainability-driven manufacturing to support a more resilient built environment.
From sustainable roofing solutions to energy-efficient insulation, many of our products are designed to help architects, contractors and developers meet stringent sustainability standards, reduce environmental impact and comply with evolving regulatory requirements.
Sustainability in construction: The role of materials
The materials used in construction play a crucial role in determining a building’s environmental footprint.
IKO’s extensive product range is designed to support sustainability goals, helping projects achieve key certifications such as BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method).
Our solutions include:
- Seamless waterproofing membranes: Designed for long life expectancy and delivering lower upfront embodied carbon.
- Energy-efficient insulation solutions: Minimising heat loss and lowering energy consumption.
- Sustainable roofing solutions: Supporting initiatives such as Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and solar roof integration.
Meeting the UK’s stricter EPC regulations
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regulations are becoming stricter, requiring commercial properties to achieve higher energy efficiency ratings to comply with sustainability standards.
These regulations are driving demand for better insulation, sustainable roofing and materials that reduce energy consumption and improve overall building performance. IKO’s roofing and insulation solutions help developers, architects and surveyors comply with these evolving standards while contributing to the creation of buildings that are energy-efficient, cost-effective and environmentally responsible.
Supporting Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in construction
Under the Environment Act 2021, most new developments in England must achieve at least a 10% net gain in biodiversity as of February 2024. This means that construction projects must leave natural environments in a measurably better state than before development.
IKO Elements roofing solutions, which include green and blue roofs, support this initiative by enhancing natural habitats, improving air quality and managing rainwater sustainably. By integrating nature-positive designs, developers and designers can comply with BNG policies while creating urban spaces that support richer ecosystems and long-term biodiversity.
Sustainable manufacturing: Reducing environmental impact
IKO’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond products to our manufacturing processes, ensuring we minimise our environmental footprint at every stage of production.
Our key initiatives include:
✔ Local sourcing of materials: Over 80% of our raw materials are sourced locally, reducing transportation emissions and supporting local economies.
✔ Waste reduction: Including the use of zero-waste wrapping and reducing waste from the production lines where possible.
✔ Sustainable packaging: Our packaging incorporates 30% recycled content, with a target to reach 50% by 2030.
Enhancing our environmental efforts
As part of our commitment to sustainability, we have implemented PAS 2080, a leading standard for carbon management in the construction sector.
This framework ensures a consistent, transparent approach to tracking and reducing carbon emissions across the entire lifecycle of infrastructure projects – from sourcing and production to construction, maintenance and disposal. Aligning with our ESG goals, PAS 2080 strengthens our ability to minimise embodied carbon and mitigate environmental impact effectively.
Additionally, we have adopted the BES 6001 Framework for Responsible Sourcing, reinforcing our commitment to ethical, sustainable and socially responsible material sourcing. This certification assures clients and stakeholders that our products are sourced with environmental protection, social equity and economic viability in mind.
Science-Based Targets: Measuring our impact
At IKO, sustainability is embedded in our operations, with a strong focus on measurable climate action. Our commitment to the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) ensures that our decarbonisation efforts align with global climate goals, driving real reductions in emissions across our value chain.
IKO has set clear, science-backed targets to significantly cut carbon emissions:
- 90% reduction in carbon emissions across Scope 1, 2 and 3 by 2050.
- 42% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030, using our 2022 baseline.
By 2030, we aim to certify that 70% of our UK supply chain is aligned with the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and plan to make 50% of all packaging from recycled materials, therefore reducing waste.
Finally, we are working to ensure that 100% of our raw material suppliers have a decarbonisation plan in place, demonstrating a collective commitment to lowering emissions and building a more sustainable future.
Leading the way in sustainable construction
As a responsible manufacturer, IKO is committed to raising the bar for sustainability in the construction industry. Through continuous innovation, responsible sourcing and industry collaboration, we ensure that our products and processes contribute to a healthier planet and a more sustainable built environment.
By working together with our suppliers, customers, industry peers and partners, we can build a future where construction is not just efficient but also environmentally responsible.
Discover more about our sustainability initiatives in our latest ESG and sustainability report.
Partnering with IKO
IKO envisions a future where construction and manufacturing are synonymous with sustainability. By integrating ESG principles and prioritising innovation, we aim to create environmental solutions that benefit our customers, communities, and the planet itself.
Ready for more responsible construction? Together, we can build a legacy of innovation and sustainability for the construction industry:
