Engineering net zero and beyond

Renewable energy

We design and develop the infrastructure needed to harness clean energy sources like wind, solar, tidal and green hydrogen. 

Example highlights:

• Computational structural engineering for offshore wind energy 
• Offshore wind turbine pile design
• Safer, more durable alloys for hydrogen energy

Low carbon materials for the built environment

We’re developing and scaling up new building materials with a smaller carbon footprint, such as low-carbon concrete and recycled components. 

Example highlight: Net-zero cement materials

Managing infrastructure life-cycles

We improve planning, monitoring, and maintenance across the full life-cycle so roads and buildings last longer, perform better, and cost less to maintain.

Example highlight: Infrastructure Lifecycles research group

Healthy, energy-neutral buildings

From smart ventilation to better lighting, our research helps create spaces that are comfortable, sustainable, and good for the planet.

Example highlight: Schools' air quality monitoring for health and education

Recycling and reuse of materials and waste

Our work applies circular economy principles to reduce landfill, conserve resources, and shrink the carbon footprint of infrastructure.

Example highlight: Recycling wind turbine blades

Advanced construction methods

We’re transforming how infrastructure is built using technologies like 3D printing, prefabrication, and real-time monitoring to reduce waste, speed up construction, and improve safety. 

Example highlight: World’s first 3D-printed steel footbridge

Accelerating the shift to zero emissions vehicles

We support the move to cleaner transport by developing smarter infrastructure, like charging networks and intelligent traffic systems, for electric and autonomous vehicles. 

Example highlight: Accelerating the decarbonisation of HGVs