Costain Leads the Way in Carbon Management with PAS 2080 Verification
Infrastructure solutions giant Costain has achieved a significant milestone in sustainable construction, securing verification to PAS 2080:2023, the leading global standard for carbon management in infrastructure.
Awarded by the British Standards Institution (BSI), this verification underscores Costain’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and championing a greener built environment.
Raising the Bar in Carbon Reduction
PAS 2080 is the world’s first carbon management standard for infrastructure projects, covering both new developments and the retrofitting of existing assets. The revised 2023 version strengthens requirements around procurement, collaboration, and measurement, ensuring a more rigorous approach to decarbonisation across the industry.
Following a thorough assessment of its projects and processes, Costain has been reverified to the latest standard. The company’s proactive approach to integrating carbon reduction across operations impressed BSI auditors, reaffirming its leadership in sustainable infrastructure delivery.
Geraint Rowland, Group Environment Director at Costain, stated: “Securing verification of PAS 2080 is testament to our delivery of low-carbon sustainable infrastructure across all our sectors. We have developed tools and updated our processes to improve our understanding of carbon emissions and inform decision-making as we create a sustainable future.”
A Longstanding Commitment to Carbon Management
Costain has been at the forefront of the PAS 2080 framework since its inception, playing an instrumental role in shaping its standards. As part of the Steering Group responsible for the original PAS 2080 standard, the company has continuously advocated for innovation in carbon reduction.
One standout example is Costain’s contribution to the HS2 Skanska Costain STRABAG joint venture, where an innovative zero-trim pile solution resulted in an 840 tCO2e saving. By pioneering new construction techniques, Costain is setting a benchmark for carbon efficiency across the sector.
Strengthening Supply Chain Sustainability
Beyond its internal initiatives, Costain is actively working with supply chain partners to improve carbon tracking and accountability. In 2023, the company launched a carbon tracker platform, designed to standardise emissions reporting across all its projects. This tool enables suppliers to log emissions data more accurately, helping Costain gain deeper insights into Scope 3 emissions—a major focus of the PAS 2080 standard.
By leveraging real-time data from its partners, Costain can refine its carbon reduction strategies, enhance project planning, and drive meaningful change across the construction ecosystem.
Recognised by the Green Economy
Costain’s sustainability credentials extend beyond PAS 2080 verification. The company has also received the London Stock Exchange’s Green Economy Mark, an accolade reserved for listed businesses that derive at least 50% of their revenues from environmentally sustainable activities. This recognition cements Costain’s status as a leader in delivering green infrastructure solutions that align with global decarbonisation goals.
Shahm Barhom, Group Product Certification Director at BSI, praised Costain’s efforts: “Achieving verification to the carbon management standard PAS 2080 underscores Costain’s dedication to advancing sustainable infrastructure and playing its part in the sector’s journey. Costain’s commitment to the revised 2023 standard highlights its proactive approach to integrating carbon reduction across all aspects of operations.”
Paving the Way for a Greener Future
Costain’s achievement is more than just a certification; it’s a testament to the company’s forward-thinking strategy in tackling infrastructure emissions. As industries worldwide race towards net-zero targets, companies that embed sustainability into their core operations will be best positioned for long-term success.
By setting a gold standard in carbon management, Costain is proving that sustainable infrastructure isn’t just an ideal—it’s an achievable reality. Through industry-wide collaboration, cutting-edge technology, and continuous innovation, the company is driving real progress toward a decarbonised UK and a more resilient built environment.
