Challenges and Progression within Decarbonization in 2026 and Beyond
What’s the biggest decarbonization challenge contractors are facing right now in 2026?
In remote mountain communities, the biggest challenge is that there aren’t many local incentives pushing contractors to prioritize decarbonization. Most contractors are focused on schedule, cost, and logistics. Decarbonization can feel like an added layer rather than a core requirement. Limited access to low‑carbon materials, longer supply chains, and fewer regional programs make it harder to implement meaningful carbon reductions on the construction side alone.
Where do you think contractors are making real progress - and where are they still struggling?
Contractors are making real progress in responsible construction and demolition waste management, especially around diversion, material tracking, and recycling. That’s where we’re seeing the most tangible action locally. Where they’re still struggling is upstream, at the design and material selection phase. Embodied carbon, material efficiency, and reuse strategies often aren’t fully integrated early enough, which limits how much impact contractors can have once a project is already designed.
What are you personally speaking about at this year’s event, and why does it matter right now?
I’m speaking about construction and demolition waste diversion as an entry point to broader decarbonization conversations, especially in smaller or remote jurisdictions. Waste management is often where communities start. Right now, it matters to connect diversion efforts to design decisions, material choices, and embodied carbon, so we’re not just managing waste better, but generating less of it in the first place.
In your view, what should contractors focus on first to reduce carbon without hurting delivery or margins?
I don’t think I have a clear or complete answer to that yet. From where I sit, decarbonization is still something we’re collectively figuring out, especially in smaller, remote communities where construction activities have a significant impact.
What are you most looking forward to discussing or learning from peers at Advancing Construction Decarbonization 2026?
I’m most excited to learn how others are creating momentum around decarbonization. I’m interested in practical strategies for integrating embodied carbon into local policies, design standards, and contractor workflows, and how peers are bridging the gap between ambition and what’s realistically buildable.
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