MPBA Launches Roadmap to Net Zero: A Whole Life Carbon Approach for the Modular and Portable Building Sector
Setting a clear path to 2050 for a sustainable, low-carbon industry
The Modular and Portable Building Association (MPBA) has launched its Roadmap to Net Zero — a landmark strategy that defines how the UK’s non-domestic modular and portable building sector will achieve whole life carbon neutrality by 2050.
The roadmap provides a practical framework for manufacturers, suppliers, and clients to measure, reduce, and report carbon emissions across every stage of a building’s lifecycle — from material sourcing and manufacture to use, refurbishment, and reuse.
“The whole life carbon benefits of modular construction are proven over traditional methods,” said Jackie Maginnis, Chief Executive of MPBA. “Our roadmap is a clear demonstration of the sector’s united commitment to sustainability and our shared responsibility to lead the journey to net zero.”
A Collective Commitment to Sustainability
Developed by the MPBA Sustainability Committee, the roadmap has been shaped through close collaboration with members, sustainability specialists, and academic partners. It reflects the sector’s unique ability to deliver consistent low embodied and operational carbon performance while embracing modern methods of construction and circular economy principles.
The modular industry’s combination of factory-built precision and on-site efficiency positions it as a leading force in reducing whole life carbon emissions. The roadmap sets out key milestones through to 2030 and 2050 to help organisations align their operations with the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard (UKNZCBS).
Key Themes of the Roadmap
1. Whole Life Carbon (WLC) Approach
The roadmap promotes a lifecycle view of carbon — assessing emissions from raw material extraction, manufacture, transport, construction, use, and end of life.
By embedding this whole life perspective, the modular and portable building sector can make informed design, material, and operational decisions that significantly reduce both embodied and operational carbon.
2. Circular Design and Reuse
Circularity sits at the heart of the modular approach. By designing buildings for adaptability, disassembly, and reuse, MPBA members can reduce waste by up to 90%, extend material lifespans, and support a truly circular construction economy.
3. Collaboration, Data, and Training
The roadmap calls for stronger collaboration between manufacturers, clients, and researchers to build a robust evidence base for carbon reduction.
Through its dedicated training centre, the MPBA will offer carbon literacy and life cycle assessment training, evolving into a Net Zero Academy to support members and the wider supply chain with the skills needed for the low-carbon transition.
Research and Industry Partnerships
In partnership with Swansea University, the MPBA is leading an independent research project to quantify the whole life carbon performance of modular and portable buildings.
The outcomes will help establish a sector-specific methodology aligned with national standards — giving the industry a consistent, credible framework for carbon measurement and reporting.
“Our roadmap is not just a commitment — it’s a call to action,” said Alexis Massey, Chair of the MPBA Sustainability Committee and Group Sustainability Manager at Wernick Group. “By working together, sharing data, and embedding circular design, our sector can lead UK construction towards a more sustainable future.”
A Net Zero Charter for the Sector
To support members in turning ambition into action, the MPBA will introduce a Net Zero Charter, setting out clear commitments, milestones, and reporting expectations.
This initiative will provide a recognised framework for demonstrating progress and a visible mark of credibility for clients and stakeholders.
Leading Change in the Built Environment
As the central voice for the modular and portable building sector, the MPBA will continue to advocate for practical regulation, stronger incentives, and greater recognition of modular construction’s environmental advantages.
Through collaboration, innovation, and shared learning, the association aims to raise standards, showcase best practice, and drive sector-wide decarbonisation.
You can view the roadmap via the following link https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/read/70715565/mpba-roadmap-brochure
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We need ALL MPBA members to complete a short questionnaire to ascertain the current NZC landscape within the modular and portable building sector and to determine which category of buildings the project should focus on, to be of most value to MPBA members.
Your time in completing this short questionnaire would be very much appreciated. The more input we have from members, the more likely we are to have a successful outcome for the project to the benefit of the whole sector.
The survey will only take 5 minutes to complete.
Link to the questionnaire:
Closing date is 24th October 2025