The Futurebuild Podcast (audio)

Episode 19 - A decade of change: Redefining the role of structural engineers in the climate emergency

In this episode of the Futurebuild podcast, host Martin Hurn sits down with Will Arnold, Head of Climate Action, The Institution of Structural Engineer, to unpack what it truly means to be a “guardian of materials” — and how engineering is playing a pivotal role in the shift toward net zero construction. From reducing embodied carbon to embracing circular design, material reuse, and social value, we explore how structural decisions can shape a more sustainable built environment.

 

The conversation also highlights key industry-led initiatives like the Net Zero Carbon Building Standard and the campaign for Part Z — a proposed amendment to UK building regulations that could radically change how we measure and manage the carbon impact of construction materials. Whether you're an architect, contractor, policymaker or sustainability professional, this episode offers fresh insight into the future of building design and regulation.

 

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Retrofit series Ep 18: Scaling retrofit: Funding, skills and quality in the race to net zero

In the first episode of Futurebuild’s new Retrofit Series, host Martin Hurn speaks with Simon Kemp, Growth and Innovation Director at Warmworks, about what it really takes to scale high-quality retrofit across the UK. Drawing on Scotland’s national programmes, Simon shares lessons England can learn to close funding and policy gaps while tackling fuel poverty and cutting carbon.

 

Together they unpack the need for a dual-track retrofit approach, the challenges of PAS2035, quality assurance, and the green skills shortage—as well as emerging technologies like heat pumps and infrared heating. From local delivery to national ambition, this episode offers practical insight for anyone involved in retrofit.

 

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Episode 17 - Collaboration in action: Inside the Supply Chain Sustainability School

In this episode of the Futurebuild podcast, host Martin Hurn talks with Ian Heptonstall about the origins and evolution of the Supply Chain Sustainability School — a game-changing initiative that began as a collaborative effort between major UK contractors. Ian reveals how competitors became partners to address a shared skills gap in sustainable supply chain knowledge and how the solution became a free, inclusive, and digital-first learning platform. With over 50,000 active users today, the School has redefined how the construction industry tackles sustainability — empowering SMEs, upskilling supply chains, and keeping pace with evolving environmental and social priorities.

 

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Episode 16 - From vision to action: Driving sustainability through design at WilkinsonEyre

In this episode of the Futurebuild podcast, host Martin Hurn talks talks with Nuno Correia, Head of Sustainability at WilkinsonEyre. The practice behind iconic projects like Battersea Power Station and HS2’s Old Oak Common. Nuno shares his unique journey from civil engineering to architectural sustainability and reflects on WilkinsonEyre’s 40-year legacy of innovation, material efficiency, and bioclimatic design. This episode delves into how values like collaboration and technical integration shape their sustainability approach, how the firm partners with startups to support innovation, and why heads of sustainability are becoming the linchpins of climate literacy in practice.

 

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Episode 15: The future of sustainable heating beyond gas with BOLT e-Boilers

In this episode of The Futurebuild Podcast, host Martin Hurn talks to Jaskiran Nagi, engineer and inventor of BOLT e-Boilers– the first battery-ready electric combi boiler. With heating responsible for a fifth of UK emissions, Jaskiran believes it’s time for a simple, scalable alternative to gas. They discuss the inspiration behind BOLT e-Boilers, the realities of innovating in the energy space, and why the UK’s net zero goals depend on smarter, more flexible home heating solutions. From policy barriers to the power of choice, this conversation explores the next frontier in decarbonising domestic heat.

 

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Episode 14 - Retrofitting Scotland: Inside BE-ST Fest and the Future of Low Carbon Building

In this special Futurebuild Podcast episode, recorded live at BE-ST Fest in Glasgow, Martin Hurn speaks with two of the key voices driving retrofit and innovation in Scotland.

First, Martin is joined by Caitriona Jordan, Associate Director of Retrofit & Energy Efficiency at Built Environment – Smarter Transformation (BE-ST). Caitriona shares insights into the ambitious Retrofit Scotland programme launched at the event, the challenges and opportunities facing Scotland’s built environment, and how BE-ST is leading the way with low-carbon materials, skills training, and a just transition.

Later, we hear from Lynsey Brydson, Impact Programmes Director, Built Environment – Smarter Transformation (BE-ST), who reflects on 10 years of BE-ST, innovation in timber construction, and how diversity, collaboration, and regional policy are shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future.

From community engagement to practical training, this episode captures the energy, ambition, and impact of BestFest’s International Retrofit Conference.

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Episode 13 - Building a low carbon future: The cement industry's transformation

In this episode of The Futurebuild Podcast, host Martin Hurn sits down with Marian Garfield, Sustainability Director at Heidelberg Materials, to explore the urgent challenge of decarbonising the materials we use in construction. With over a decade of leadership in the mineral extractive sector, Marion shares insights on Heidelberg Materials' ambitious 2030 commitments, including carbon capture, hydrogen technology, and circular economy initiatives.

They break down the myths surrounding cement’s carbon footprint, the company's path to net zero, and the innovations reshaping the industry. As the registration sponsor of Futurebuild 2025, Heidelberg Materials is driving the conversation on sustainability - listen in for a deep dive into the future of low-carbon construction.

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Episode 12 - The Power of PR in Planning: Navigating Policy, Community, and Development

In Episode 12 of The Futurebuild Podcast, host Martin Hurn speaks with Jonny Popper, co-founder of LCA (formerly London Communications Agency), about the evolving role of PR and public affairs in planning and development.

With over 25 years of experience, Johnny has helped shape major London projects, from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to the transformation of King's Cross. This episode dives into:

• How strategic PR and community engagement can make or break a development
• The political dynamics influencing planning decisions
• The lessons learned from some of London’s most ambitious regeneration projects

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