A report by the Strategic Forum for Construction has outlined how the industry could cut carbon emissions by 750,000 tonnes a year.

Compiled in conjunction with the Carbon Trust, the report identifies temporary cabins as one of the worst culprits for carbon emissions and energy efficiency on construction sites. This is because they are generally badly insulated and lack efficient heating and lighting controls.

An estimated £45 million and 200,000 tonnes of CO2 could be saved by the industry each year through the use of greener site offices or through the retrofitting of existing cabins.

Other suggestions made in the report included connecting construction sites to the national grid to reduce the use of diesel generators, educating staff on the energy-efficient use of plant equipment, and introducing greener driving practices and fleet vehicles.

Paul Morrell, chief construction adviser to the government, said: "The scale of the contribution required from the industry creates not just the opportunity but almost the obligation to show leadership; and this initiative from the Strategic Forum for Construction is precisely the kind of act of leadership we need."

Sustainability is one of the six key areas which is the focus of the Strategic Forum for Construction, which is made up of members of the industry to deal with the issues facing the sector.