The Glasshouse Garden, designed by Jo Thompson, sees a first in RHS Chelsea Flower Show garden construction by using hydrogen-powered machinery producing zero carbon emissions and emits only clean steam.

Using JCB’s machinery for the heavy lifting part of the garden’s construction, this acts as a step forward in environmentally conscious building and a “glimpse of the future,” says Thompson.

An environmentally conscious garden, Thompson thought about sustainability in every aspect of The Glasshouse Garden. Hydrogen-powered construction could avoid 30-50 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions globally, according to the garden designer.

Tim Burnhope, group director of special projects at JCB explains the company is the first to deploy such technology involved with the machine.

Other sustainability aspects within The Glasshouse Garden include a 50% recycled steel pavilion frame, made with recycled acrylic in botanical tints. It has used reclaimed British stone, sourced as waste or by-product from small UK queries for the paths, pavilion floor and stone rill.

Offcuts from constructions are reused, while self-seeded pathways and sedum roofing enhance biodiversity and aid rainwater management. There is also recycled material used in the seating within its pavilion.

Funded by Project Giving Back, The Glasshouse Garden is inspired by The Glasshouse charity offering second chances to women nearing the end of their prison sentences and will be open to the public at RHS Chelsea 20 – 24 May.