NBS has released their latest research into greener projects, confirming that their numbers are increasing over time
NBS has published their latest research into greener projects, such as projects achieving net zero, or projects intended to boost sustainability.
The report shows that, over the last two years, green projects have risen by 13%.
Greener projects are becoming more frequent in the industry
As the net zero push increases, the NBS report reveals that around seven out of 10 construction projects now have sustainability goals.
The study, titled the Sustainable Futures Report, was performed in collaboration with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). It has found that 64% of the 600 industry professionals it surveyed have worked on a Net Zero project in the past year, compared to 2022’s 49%.
One of the other measured metrics was the number of those surveyed who said they had ‘accomplished sustainability,’ which came to 43% of those surveyed, up from a third in 2022. This number was felt more strongly by clients surveyed, but less so for architects.
Other stats include organisations measuring their carbon footprint (70% up from 54%), organisations setting carbon reduction goals (76% up from 62%), and the number of firms with carbon offsetting strategies (53% up from 38%).
There are still obstacles for construction companies in achieving sustainability
The main reason given by respondents for why working on net zero is still difficult was cost. Before, it was due to lack of client demand, reflecting the shift in the industry’s attitude to sustainability, as well as that of the world around it.
While sustainability is good for profits in the downstream, with a stagnant economy, cost of living and inflation, and building material price rises, it is not a surprise that cost remains the largest hurdle.
Dr. Lee Jones, head of sustainability at Byggfakta Group, parent company of NBS, said: “The construction industry’s green momentum is building, with NBS reporting a small boost in net-zero projects and environmental targets being met. These are welcome figures and show that, whilst much more must be done, the sector is progressively aiming for a sustainable future.
“Going forward, I would like to see legislation around net zero building practices going further, covering embodied carbon as well as operational efficiency. For the industry to truly achieve sustainable outcomes, it needs the Government to take a stronger lead, supporting with policy and incentives.”
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