The Embodied Biodiversity Impacts of Construction Materials

This research report by Expedition Engineering, supported by the Institution of Civil Engineers, introduces the concept of “embodied biodiversity impacts” in construction materials. It emphasises that biodiversity effects extend beyond project sites to include the full lifecycle of materials—from extraction and manufacturing to transport and end-of-life.

The study develops a qualitative framework based on four key pressures: land-use change, pollution, species exploitation, and invasive species, and assesses five commonly used materials: concrete, steel, timber, asphalt, and earth. It aims to support practitioners in understanding how material choices influence biodiversity and to establish a common language for discussing these impacts.

Recognising current limitations in data and measurement, the report positions itself as an initial step toward improving industry capability. It outlines a proposed routemap for further work, focused on developing knowledge, tools, and incentives to help practitioners better account for biodiversity in decision-making.