HS2 targets carbon

8 March 2023

To mark International Women’s Day today, HS2 is highlighting the female business leaders behind a software-based system that is helping the project to decarbonise its construction operations.

Founded in 2018, Qflow is the brainchild of joint founders Brittany Harris and Jade Cohen. Using a cloud-based software delivery model, the system enables a photograph to be taken which then allows HS2’s construction partners to digitally log all materials delivered to site and the waste transferred during construction. 

The requirement for manual data entry, hardware and bar codes is eliminated, which means Qflow saves project teams an estimated 80% of site administration time, states the contractor. 

It also supports (ESG) environmental, social and governance reporting, and can improve waste compliance and carbon emissions.

HS2 funded the initial deployment of Qflow at its construction sites to allow its contractors to trial and test the software tool.

Brittany Harris, Qflow's CEO, said: “As a result of HS2 innovation funding the initial deployment, we’re pleased to say that every contractor that has used Qflow has gone on to procure us after the trial period ended.”

Charlotte Hills, HS2’s Senior Innovation Manager, commented: “Through Qflow’s simple app design, the process of calculating embodied carbon in construction gives us a detailed assessment of the emissions linked to the construction process.”