The construction industry is facing a pivotal moment. As we work collectively towards net zero targets and seek to reduce the environmental impact of the built environment, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: delivering low-carbon buildings at scale requires more than ambition alone. It requires collaboration, knowledge sharing and stronger connections across the entire supply chain to support regenerative supply chains built environment.
ROOT to market dynamic marketplace
That is why I am pleased to see the launch of the ROOT To Market Dynamic Marketplace, an initiative that brings together organisations from across the UK and Europe with a shared commitment to accelerating the use of regenerative and sustainable materials in construction.
Developed by Reconomy and Woodknowlegde Wales in collaboration with HLM Architects, Morgan Sindall Construction, Lignum Risk Partners, Cundall, Planit and Elliott Wood, the platform represents an important step forward in transforming how regenerative materials are sourced, specified and delivered. By creating curated regenerative supply chains built environment, providing procurement support and offering access to training and expertise, ROOT To Market aims to help remove many of the barriers that have traditionally limited the adoption of low-carbon materials.
Meaningful environmental outcomes requires a whole-system approach
At HLM Architects, we know that achieving meaningful environmental outcomes requires a whole-system approach. The decisions we make as designers influence far more than the appearance or functionality of a building. They shape carbon emissions, resource consumption, biodiversity and the long-term resilience of our communities. To make better choices, we need better access to information, suppliers and expertise. This is where collaborative networks such as ROOT To Market can make a real difference in advancing regenerative supply chains built environment.
What makes this initiative particularly exciting is its focus on building capacity rather than creating exclusivity. By supporting organisations at different stages of maturity and helping them develop over time, the platform opens the door to a wider range of suppliers, including SMEs and regional producers. This not only strengthens local economies but also creates a more diverse and resilient supply chain capable of supporting widespread adoption of regenerative materials.
The opportunity extends beyond materials alone. The marketplace also recognises that people are critical of delivering change. By helping organisations connect with specialist skills and sustainable construction expertise, it supports the development of the knowledge and talent needed to deliver the next generation of low-carbon projects.
HLM founding member of ROOT
As founding members of ROOT, we are proud to support initiatives that bring together clients, contractors, consultants and manufacturers around a common purpose. Collaboration has always been essential to creating better places, but it has never been more important than it is today as we navigate the journey towards a circular and regenerative built environment.
The challenges facing our industry are significant, but so too is the opportunity. By working together, sharing knowledge and creating clearer pathways to market for regenerative materials, we can move beyond isolated successes and begin delivering sustainable change at scale.
The launch of ROOT To Market demonstrates what is possible when organisations unite behind a shared vision. It is an encouraging example of the collective action needed to transform our industry and create a built environment that gives back more than it takes.
We look forward to continuing this journey alongside our partners and helping turn regenerative construction from an aspiration into everyday practice.
