Building Projects Are Getting Greener, NBS Survey Suggests

Conveying the results from a survey conducted by NBS, in association with the Sustainable Energy Association and supported by organisations such as Glenigan and RIBA, the Sustainable Futures UK Report 2024 has found that the number of net zero projects being commissioned is increasing.

Almost 600 people were surveyed, aiming to assess the current state of sustainability in the UK construction industry and explore the progress made since the previous NBS report in 2022.

Key findings include:

• 70% of construction projects now incorporate sustainability targets.
• 43% of industry professionals report successfully achieving sustainability goals, up from a third in 2022.
• A 13% increase in net-zero projects compared to the previous year’s report.
• 64% of professionals have worked on a net-zero project in the past year, a significant rise from 49% in 2022.
• 16% growth in the number of organisations measuring their carbon footprint, with 70% now tracking emissions.
• 14% rise in firms setting carbon reduction goals, with 76% now doing so, compared to 62% previously.
• 53% of companies have adopted carbon offsetting strategies, up from 38% in 2021.

Cost, lack of client demand, value engineering and lack of government policy or regulation, continue to be identified as the main issues creating barriers to sustainable action. The challenges of the last few years, including high material price inflation and supply issues, are noted. The report identifies a major role for the Government to play in progressing sustainable outcomes.

However, it is important to recognise that findings trend positive. Dr. Lee Jones, Head of Sustainability at Byggfakta Group, NBS’ parent company, said: “These are welcome figures and show that, whilst much more must be done, the sector is progressively aiming for a sustainable future.

“Certainly, I’d expect to see new significance given to areas like sustainable land use and biodiversity, especially given the recent introduction of new legislation as part of the 2021 Environment Act.

“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.”

Download and read NBS’ Sustainable Futures Report 2024 in full.