Insights into the 2023 Market Analysis for Sustainable Construction
In a recent global study conducted by Ramboll, a leading engineering, architecture, and consultancy company, a significant shift towards sustainability in various sectors has been highlighted. The study involved responses from investors, developers, contractors, engineers, architects, and designers across the business environment.
The study underlines the importance of addressing the existing building stock to achieve a decarbonized future and net-zero goals, as emphasized by Scott Brookes, Director for Ramboll. Despite 98% of respondents considering sustainability important for the success of business operations, an increase of 4% from 2021, Scott Brookes expresses concern about the lack of action on net-zero buildings within organizations.
The report shows that only 50% of respondents have embedded net-zero buildings into their organization's business strategy towards 2030. This lack of action, coupled with the fact that 33% of respondents did not know what sustainability reporting schemes their organization used, indicates a need for greater awareness and prioritization of sustainability initiatives.
Higher investment costs are considered the biggest barrier preventing sustainability from being prioritized within organizations, with 61% of respondents stating this. This finding is particularly relevant in the UK, where 66% of respondents believe investment costs to be a major issue.
However, the study also reveals a growing focus on the 'circular economy' in the construction and real estate sector. 62% of organizations say they have an increased focus on refurbishment, aiming for resource efficiency and shorter construction times. This shift towards a more sustainable and efficient approach is evident in the actions of companies like HARTL HAUS and the Bauer Group, which have committed to sustainable building practices. HARTL HAUS focuses on using wood as a building material to reduce CO2 emissions and integrates overall sustainability in environmental, social, and governance areas. Meanwhile, Bauer employs serial and modular construction with recyclable materials and sustainable energy solutions to reduce their ecological footprint, aiming for net-zero goals by 2030.
The study also reveals that 'carbon neutrality' and 'circular economy' are the most important trends for the sector, with 63% and 62% of respondents, respectively, considering them crucial. This increased focus on sustainability trends is further reflected in the actions of businesses like Lidl, which plans to change all milk caps to clear to improve their recyclability and has announced plans to stock less meat and incorporate ocean bound plastic into its water bottle packaging, although no new information about these plans was provided in the report.
In conclusion, the study provides valuable insights into the trends, methods, and motivations in sustainability across various sectors. Scott Brookes emphasizes that turning ambition into action is crucial in the context of sustainability in business operations. The study serves as a call to action for organizations to prioritize sustainability initiatives and work towards a more sustainable and circular future.
