How National Highways is Driving a Sustainable Value Chain

In the UK, the domestic transport sector accounts for more than a quarter of total greenhouse gas emissions, according to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

National Highways, which manages England’s motorways and major roads, is targeting net zero highways while preserving the natural environment and tackling pollution.

Building sustainable roads

National Highways’ aim is a road network that supports England’s transport needs while protecting and strengthening the natural environment and community wellbeing.

Its targets are net zero corporate emissions by 2030, maintenance and construction emissions by 2040 and road user emissions by 2050.

Since publishing its first environmental strategy in 2017, the organisation has delivered 95 biodiversity schemes including habitat connectivity and enhancement, new habitat creation and planting species-rich grassland.

It has also improved flood resilience at more than 100 locations and enhanced more than 30 kilometres of water bodies through water quality initiatives.

Nick Harris, CEO of National Highways, says: “Our work across the country uniquely positions us to play an active and positive role in conserving its resources and improving its ecosystems and green spaces for generations to come.

“We are taking robust action now and have developed a wide-ranging programme of activities from our carbon net zero ambitions to procuring new technologies and renewable energies, increasing biodiversity, improving air quality and preserving cultural heritage.”

Buying for net zero

National Highways plans to collaborate with industry partners and academic institutions to research solutions that accelerate vehicle decarbonisation. Procurement is central to this, with a focus on optimising resource use, improving how materials are sourced and applying a life cycle approach to design so assets last longer and use fewer resources.

The organisation says it will deliver innovative solutions that endure, minimising resource use and maximising asset life. It is also investing in renewable energy across its estate to reduce emissions from its own operations and support its net zero goals.

Stephen Elderkin, National Highways’s Director of Environmental Sustainability, will be speaking at Sustainability LIVE: The Net Zero Summit, which is co-located with Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE, in March 2026.

Secure your ticket now to join us in London on 4-5 March 2026.

Leadership spotlight: Stephen Elderkin

Stephen Elderkin, National Highways’ Director of Environmental Sustainability, will speak at Sustainability LIVE: The Net Zero Summit in March 2026.

He leads implementation of the company’s net zero plan and environmental strategy. Stephen joined in 2015 after a decade in the central civil service as a member of the Government Economic Service, where his work included leading the Government’s analysis for the Climate Change Act and setting the first four carbon budgets.

At National Highways, he has served as Chief Analyst, Project Director for a Tier 1 construction project and Director of Environmental Sustainability since November 2021.

Stephen says: “Our challenge is to connect the country and support a thriving environment. Flexible, affordable, accessible roads connect everyone to everywhere. They underpin our national prosperity.

“But it matters how we connect the country. We need to do it safely, efficiently and sustainably.”

Secure your ticket now to join us in London on 4-5 March 2026.