Accelerating the adoption of sustainable construction materials in the UK
The UK construction industry is moving to adopt sustainable, low-carbon solutions with less environmental impact. This shift drives the use of materials that valorise waste, utilise renewable bio-resources, and enhance circularity by repurposing and reusing components.
Adoption of emergent UK materials can be slow though, due to low awareness, regulatory hurdles, investor reluctance, complex regulatory systems, and a fragmented supply chain.
The Emergent, Sustainable, Built Environment, Materials. Innovation Network (ESBEM) exists to help improve adoption across UK supply chains, from small SMEs to major organisations and arm’s length bodies. The network supports all aspects of the built environment, including permanent and temporary works, construction, retrofit, and maintenance – from small buildings to major infrastructure.
Key technology areas
Bio-based technologies
Plant, natural and bio-based materials and products.
Valorised Waste
Materials created using form low-value waste streams within and outwith the sector .
Reused/repurposed materials
Materials and products that are reused or repurposed to enable repeated life cycles .
EVENT SERIES
Certification of Novel Construction Products
For innovators working in Emergent Sustainable Built Environment Materials. This four-part webinar series brings together industry specialists, successful SMEs, and expert Q&A to demystify the process of testing, certification, and acceptance for novel, low environmental impact materials and products.
Read more and register
Leveraging the Network
Sharing knowledge and learning through activities, communication and resources
Showcasing emergent technologies and capabilities
Facilitating business connections and collaborations through activities and the Connection Finder Service
Identifying relevant technologies and capabilities to solve particular problems
Our Experts
Related Opportunities
Resource efficiency for resilience and sustainability: feasibility studies
Opens: 22/09/2025 Closes: 03/11/2025
Up to £25k per project for innovative feasibility studies in novel, sustainable, low carbon materials and manufacturing, including seaweed processing.
More Information
Related Events and Recordings
Tue
11
Nov
2025
Tue
8
Jul
2025
Emergent Sustainable Built Environment Materials - ESBEM Innovation Network
09.30 - 12.30 | Online
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NETWORK
Join the network
Whether you are a researcher of sustainable materials, a producer, product manufacturer, supplier, specifier, contractor, or a user or other related organisation who has an interest in sustainable construction materials, we offer tailored support and activity to suit your need. Join the network and collaborate.