Improving Innovation and Productivity In Earthworks
A new report Improving Innovation and Productivity In Earthworks from the Infrastructure Industry Innovation Partnership (i3P) has identified areas for efficiency improvements in the earthworks sector. These represent a potential 10-20% reduction in the UK’s annual spend on earthworks, which is currently between £1bn-£1.5bn.
Productivity in the UK’s construction sector has barely improved in the last 20 years. In 2020, i3P set up a Tiger Team to research the sector; the team has highlighted 24 opportunities which, if implemented, have the potential to save the industry £100m–£300m per annum. The recommendations could also see embodied carbon reduction and improved air quality.
A total of 28 organisations were involved in the research including the creators of some of Britain’s largest infrastructure projects – HS2, the Environment Agency, National Highways, EDF, Sellafield, Thames Tideway and the Northern Ireland Department of Infrastructure.
Among the opportunities identified to transform earthworks are proposals to:
- Expedite the use and development of Connected and Autonomous Plant (CAP) which has the potential to significantly increase the productivity, accuracy and safety of earthworks.
- Use state-of-the-art geotechnical testing technologies and real time performance indicators to improve earthworks placement quality and reduce programme delays.
- Adopt digital technology to improve communication, accuracy, control and predictability of earthworks processes.
- Encourage the use of alternative plant fuel types (e.g. electrified, hydrogen and hybrid technologies), which have the potential to reduce CO2 emissions, improve air quality and extend operational working hours.
Through its community and network, i3P will continue to champion the changes required.
You can access the report here.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Scottish parents prioritise construction and apprenticeships
CIOB data released for Scottish Apprenticeship Week shows construction as top potential career path.
From a Green to White Paper and a the proposal for a product General Safety Requirement.
Creativity, conservation and craft at Barley Studio. Book review.
The challenge as PFI agreements come to an end
How construction deals with inherit assets built under long-term contracts.
Skills plan for engineering and building services
Comprehensive industry report highlights persistent skills challenges across the sector.
Choosing the right design team for a D&B Contract
An architect explains the nature and needs of working within this common procurement route.
Statement from the Interim Chief Construction Advisor
Thouria Istephan; Architect and inquiry panel member outlines ongoing work, priorities and next steps.
The 2025 draft NPPF in brief with indicative responses
Local verses National and suitable verses sustainable: Consultation open for just over one week.
Increased vigilance on VAT Domestic Reverse Charge
HMRC bearing down with increasing force on construction consultant says.
Call for greater recognition of professional standards
Chartered bodies representing more than 1.5 million individuals have written to the UK Government.
Cutting carbon, cost and risk in estate management
Lessons from Cardiff Met’s “Halve the Half” initiative.
Inspiring the next generation to fulfil an electrified future
Technical Manager at ECA on the importance of engagement between industry and education.
Repairing historic stone and slate roofs
The need for a code of practice and technical advice note.
Environmental compliance; a checklist for 2026
Legislative changes, policy shifts, phased rollouts, and compliance updates to be aware of.