Construction needs innovation to get to sustainability

• News & Highlights

The COVID-19 pandemic increased the focus on climate-related issues, including the need to build a cleaner and greener construction industry. Global construction companies face rapidly evolving challenges, including increased scrutiny regarding their environmental, social and governance (ESG) stance.

Various strategic changes are being made to business models as companies look for product and process innovation to create a more sustainable industry and "build better."

Globally, the built environment generates 30 percent of total greenhouse gas emissions annually, and construction consumes about 32 percent of the world’s natural resources. While the industry is one of the larger contributors to climate change, it also has an opportunity to effect positive change.

Public interest in sustainability investment has grown significantly over the past 12 months. There is increased activity worldwide to promote greener construction. Reinforced by commitments to the Paris Agreement, a growing number of government entities are encouraging net-zero carbon buildings.