The construction industry is one of the largest users of global resources and contributors to pollution.

With the government's plan in place to get the industry to net-zero by 2025, it's a huge discussion point in the industry.

What is sustainable construction?

Sustainable construction means building with renewable and recyclable resources and materials, as well as reducing energy consumption and waste.

The primary goal of sustainable construction is to reduce the industry's impact on the environment.

It refers to not only the building process but also how the building itself will affect the environment once completed, exploring whether it includes installation to prevent heat loss and solar panels to reduce energy consumption.

Construction professionals' thoughts on sustainable construction

A report based on interviews with 100 executives from UK construction firms has demonstrated the industry's increasing focus on sustainable design.

They found that the majority of respondents expect the attention on sustainable design to increase further over the next three years.

This is unsurprising, given that construction firms have previously identified significant commercial benefits from using sustainable design and engineering. Eighty-three per cent believe projects designed with green credentials have given businesses a competitive advantage, while two-thirds claim sustainable design adds value to existing developments.

What is stopping the industry from going greener?

Many companies are concerned that there is insufficient demand in the market, and that the costs of entering the market are seen as excessive.

The research found that the following are the primary barriers for the industry:

• Lack of a clear green design goal
• Increased costs
• Decentralised management of the green building process
• Lack of experience / knowledge with green building
• Insufficient time / funding

Incentives

With these barriers in mind, what incentivises a construction business to consider more sustainable business practices?

• Corporate Social Responsibility: Everyone has a role to play in attaining carbon neutrality by the year 2050. Adopting sustainable construction methods shows that you are conscious of the environment and demonstrate that you are a responsible company.
• Consumers are more conscious of CSR: According to a study, when identical products have comparable pricing, 91% of customers are inclined to change companies if their brand is associated with a good cause.
• Long-term costs: Although the initial cost is greater, the long-term benefits are invaluable. Data indicates that the value of "green" buildings rises by 7% compared to conventional structures. Green buildings have lower operational expenses than their counterparts. Data indicates the use of the newest sustainable construction technology may save billions per year on global energy costs.
• Environmental benefits: Using renewable energy & building materials will help in the fight against climate change, whilst greener buildings will improve waste management and emissions.

Sustainability and environment focused careers in construction

Looking to get into construction and interested in focusing on the environmental factors? These roles may interest you:

Environmental Advisor
Ensuring that construction projects comply with environmental regulations in a variety of ways, such as managing waste disposal and reducing air and water pollution.

Environmental Engineer
Protecting the environment by reducing waste and pollution during construction. They develop renewable energy sources to ensure materials are used in the best way possible, and they design and manage pollution control technology.

Sustainability Manger
Oversee their company's efforts to go green (and stay green). Develop, implement, and monitor environmental strategies.