Sustainability and building compliance expert. Specialising in low energy design, SAP, SBEM, BREEAM, and air testing for the construction industry,
Andrew Sadler
In an era where sustainability is a global priority, the latest NBS Sustainability Report paints a sobering picture: less than 50% of construction projects meet sustainability benchmarks. With pressure for more and more organisations and individuals to join the Race to Net Zero, this finding is a wake-up call for the industry to rethink its practices.
The urgent need for sustainable construction.
Construction is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for a staggering 37% of global CO2 emissions. Of this, approximately a quarter stems from operational energy use in buildings, while 11% comes from embodied carbon—the emissions produced during construction and material manufacturing.
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The NBS report highlights that despite increased awareness, sustainable practices are still far from standard. Among their crucial findings, they report uncovered that fewer than half of construction projects incorporate robust sustainable strategies. A majority of respondents cite cost and lack of client demand as barriers to adopting greener methods. Materials selection and energy efficiency remain critical yet underprioritised areas.
These gaps raise concerns about whether the industry can align with the UK government’s commitment to a 68% reduction in emissions by 2030—a milestone en route to net zero. The report also emphasises the difficulty in sourcing sustainable materials due to limited availability, higher costs, and inconsistent supply chain transparency. This is exacerbated by a lack of education and awareness among industry stakeholders, further stalling the shift toward greener practices. While initial costs for sustainable materials can be high, their long-term benefits, such as improved energy efficiency and durability, could offset these expenses over time.
What can we do to improve the sustainability of projects?
To bridge the gap between current practices and sustainability goals, construction stakeholders must adopt:
- Low-Carbon Materials: Utilising recycled materials, low-carbon concrete, and sustainable timber reduces embodied carbon significantly.
- Energy-Efficient Design: Prioritising passive heating, cooling, and renewable energy systems lowers operational energy use.
- Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs): LCAs evaluate a project’s environmental impact from start to finish, guiding more sustainable decisions.
- Circular Economy Principles: Reuse and recycling of materials minimise waste and resource extraction.
While sustainable construction may involve higher upfront costs, studies show it delivers long-term savings through reduced energy bills and maintenance. Additionally, green buildings often achieve higher property values and rental premiums, making them an attractive investment.
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What do the experts think?
Andrew Sadler, Director of Buildpass, said:
“The findings of the NBS Sustainability Report really drive home the need for urgent action. With less than half of projects meeting sustainability standards, the construction sector risks falling short of net zero goals. It’s our responsibility to adopt innovative practices and embrace sustainable design, while exploring the potential for collaboration across the supply change.Architects, engineers, contractors, and clients must work together to prioritise sustainability, backed by government incentives and stricter regulations.”
This ethos is the foundation of our work here at Buildpass. To find out more about how we can ensure your next project hits sustainability goals, contact a member of our friendly team.
