This document is a summary of a more detailed report published by EA Technology on 19 September 2023 following the completion of comprehensive research, which combined in-depth stakeholder discussions and rigorous data analysis. Enormous insight has been gained into the intricacies of the sector and the nuances of its data landscape.

Executive Summary
Our pursuit to improve the emission estimates in the street and road works sector has led to important revelations. Through comprehensive research, which combined in-depth stakeholder discussions and rigorous data analysis, we've gained insights into the intricacies of the sector and the nuances of its data landscape.

A key realisation from our research is the inherent challenge in obtaining emission estimates for the sector. Factors such as inconsistent data collection across regions and industries, the diverse nature of works, and the inherent complexity of tasks in the sector have all played a part. Our initial methodology, which leaned heavily on stakeholder feedback to discern "average" work emissions, also faced significant challenges with stakeholder engagement, along with hesitancy and difficulty in sharing data. While providing an initial framework, it lacked the depth and precision necessary for a comprehensive understanding of the sector emissions.

Our engagement with existing platforms, notably Street Manager and the Scottish Road Works Register, revealed valuable insights. These include an updated figure of approximately 2.5 million works per year (2022/23), along with an in depth investigation on the types of works performed and how they differ across industries.

While these works register systems are instrumental, there's a clear need for enhanced granularity and broader data accessibility across the regions. The lack of data for Northern Ireland and Wales in particular, emphasises the pressing need for standardised and open data mechanisms.

From these findings, we've distilled key recommendations. These include the expansion of open data in systems like Street Manager, the addition of more detailed fields to better capture work nuances, and the establishment of centralised data collection in regions where it's lacking. Furthermore, the development of our standardised carbon calculator embodies our drive for a consistent, sector-wide approach to emission estimates.
By implementing these recommendations, we're not just improving data accuracy; we're paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally-conscious street and road works sector in the UK.

Download the summary report below.