Obtaining PAS 2080 Certification for Construction

Sustainability in construction has become a pressing priority, with industries seeking innovative ways to reduce their carbon footprint and enhance efficiency. One of the most prominent frameworks guiding this transition is PAS 2080: Carbon Management in Infrastructure, a specification that supports organisations in minimising carbon emissions during construction. Obtaining PAS 2080 certification starts with understanding how to manage carbon in construction projects.  

What is PAS 2080? 

PAS 2080, or Publicly Available Specification 2080, is the first global standard focused on managing carbon in infrastructure. It was introduced by the British Standards Institution (BSI) in collaboration with the Construction Leadership Council and is supported by industry players to encourage carbon reduction at all stages of the construction lifecycle. The standard creates a consistent method to calculate and manage greenhouse gas emissions in infrastructure projects. It covers the complete lifecycle of construction projects, from the original concept to operation and maintenance. 

Four essential elements define PAS 2080: 

• Carbon reduction targets and baselines 

• Quantification methodologies 

• Value chain collaboration 

• Continuous improvement processes 

PAS 2080 standard offers practical solutions for sustainable construction projects. This scientific approach helps teams establish precise carbon management protocols with clear accountability. Organisations adopting PAS 2080 must show their carbon reduction commitment through measurable evidence and real-world application. Success depends on maintaining detailed monitoring systems, precise records and steady progress in carbon management practises. 

The Difference Between PAS 2080 and PAS 2060 

Organisations working toward PAS 2080 certification often align with PAS 2060 standards to further demonstrate their commitment to carbon neutrality. PAS 2060 is the globally recognised standard for achieving and certifying carbon neutrality. It offers businesses a framework to measure, reduce and offset their carbon emissions transparently and can be applied across a wide range of industries. While PAS 2080 focuses on carbon management in construction and infrastructure, PAS 2060 is a broader framework for carbon neutrality. The key differences lie in their application: 

For construction projects, PAS 2080 is more specific and actionable, providing the guidance needed to embed sustainability within infrastructure projects. 

PAS 2080 Guidance for Construction 

Achieving PAS 2080 certification requires a comprehensive and structured approach to carbon management in construction.  

1. Commitment to a sustainable construction project
   Senior management in charge of the project should actively be in support of carbon reduction initiatives, set clear sustainability goals and allocate the necessary resources.
   Related Insight: How to best Implement Sustainability in Construction
2. Adopt Collaborative Practices
   PAS 2080 emphasises collaboration across the value chain. From clients and designers to suppliers and contractors, every stakeholder must align their efforts toward reducing carbon emissions. Open communication, shared goals and joint problem-solving create an environment where innovative, low-carbon solutions can thrive.
3. Establishing Carbon Reduction Targets
   Setting measurable and realistic carbon reduction targets is crucial. These targets should account for both direct and indirect emissions, encompassing the entire lifecycle of a project.
4. Adopting Whole-Life Carbon Thinking
   Whole-life carbon thinking means evaluating emissions from the conception of a project through to its end of life. This approach involves assessing materials, construction methods, operational energy use and eventual decommissioning. 
   Related Insight: Whole Lifecycle Carbon Assessment Aids Sustainability in Construction
5. Training and Capacity Building
   Educating employees on the PAS 2080 compliance ensures that teams understand and embrace sustainability practices. 
6. Independent Verification and Certification
   The final step is engaging a third-party assessor to review and verify compliance with PAS 2080. This ensures that all processes and outcomes meet the standard’s requirements, leading to official certification and recognition. 

At Tunley Environmental, our bespoke PAS 2080 support service assesses your project delivery against the standard’s requirements, closely monitors carbon emissions throughout the project and helps you effectively manage your supply chain and your role within it. We have a selection of construction sustainability services to assist those in looking to achieve their goals on various projects. We’ve successfully supported clients like PORR, one of Europe’s leading construction companies, in aligning with PAS 2080 and reducing their carbon footprint.  

Read More: PORR Case Study with Tunley 

Benefits of the PAS 2080 Certification for Construction Projects 

Construction companies with PAS 2080 certification have a clear edge in today's sustainability-focused market.  

Environmental Impact Reduction 

PAS 2080 certification signifies a commitment to cutting carbon emissions across the construction lifecycle. By adopting sustainable practices, organisations can minimise their reliance on high-carbon materials. 

Enhanced Economic Efficiency 

PAS 2080-certified companies may gain a competitive edge in bidding for sustainable construction projects, unlocking new revenue opportunities. 

Social and Reputational Gains 

Obtaining PAS 2080 certification builds trust among stakeholders, including clients, investors and communities. Demonstrating such a proactive stance on sustainable construction enhances an organisation’s reputation and aligns with the growing public demand for environmentally responsible business practices. 

Regulatory and Market Preparedness 

As governments and industries tighten regulations around carbon emissions, PAS 2080-certified organisations are better equipped to navigate these changes. The certification minimises exposure to potential carbon taxes or penalties. 

Strategic Leadership in Sustainability 

PAS 2080-certified companies can position themselves as leaders in sustainable construction. This enhances their market standing and contributes to the global transition to sustainable infrastructure. 

The Bottom Line 

Obtaining PAS 2080 certification is a vital step for organisations aiming to embed sustainability into their construction and infrastructure projects. It offers a robust framework for reducing carbon emissions and fostering collaboration across the entire project lifecycle. With the construction industry under increasing pressure to decarbonise, the PAS 2080 is a certifiable for a business to demonstrate its commitment to sustainability. Whether you're a contractor, supplier or infrastructure manager, PAS 2080 provides the tools and guidance needed to lead the way in sustainable construction.