Green construction is becoming the gold standard

Sustainability and construction may seem to be two opposing concepts, but the tide is changing. It’s been estimated that buildings are responsible for almost 40% of global energy related carbon emissions, while operational factors such as on-site waste and damage to natural habitats only add to this damning picture.

What happens, though, when construction and sustainability work in union? With sustainable practices moving up the agenda for organisations of all shapes and sizes, there’s large scale investment in green construction and retrofitting projects. And the results so far are encouraging.

In this blog, we’ll consider what green construction actually is, and why it’s evolved from a ‘nice to have’ to a central aspect of modern development.
 

What is green construction?

Green construction — also referred to as sustainable building — aims to increase efficiency and minimise environmental impact throughout a structure’s entire lifecycle. This often promotes the use of renewable energy and recycled materials, along with reduced waste and transportation. New technologies and ways of thinking are also crucial to the philosophy and implementation of sustainable development; from prefabrication and 3D-printing to geothermal heating.
 

Why is green construction important?

Whether it’s safeguarding the environment and public health, or improving an organisation’s perception and operational efficiency, green construction is becoming the gold standard of modern development. Here are some of the key reasons why:

1. Environmental gains: 

Green construction plays a leading role in offsetting a pressing climate emergency and building resilience to changing environments. Efficiently designed and constructed green buildings reduce carbon emissions, result in lower waste, preserve natural resources, and enhance air and water quality.
 

2. Health benefits: 

Sustainable construction is not only good for the health of our planet, but for our own, too. Lowered embodied carbon means cleaner air for communities, while natural landscaping integrates greener spaces to support our wellbeing. These health boons aren’t relegated to the outdoors though. Thanks to the use of clever lighting, natural materials, improved ventilation, and regulated environments, dedicated green buildings create better indoor areas for occupants. Some studies even suggest that green buildings with enhanced ventilation can positively impact cognitive health.
 

3. A cost-efficient approach: 

If protecting the environment and people’s wellbeing weren’t reason enough, green construction has notable financial benefits. While up-front costs can potentially be higher, green buildings provide a long-term return on investment, with increased energy efficiency and reduced maintenance costs adding value over time. Amid a cost-of-living crisis — or other future economic uncertainties — lowering energy bills is a top priority for families and businesses alike. And on a global scale, the World Bank Group estimates that investing in more resilient infrastructure could save a phenomenal 4.2 trillion from climate challenges.
 

4. Supports a green economy

: Traditional economic models encourage wasteful consumption, hasten resource scarcity, and entrench inequity. Conversely, green construction contributes to an inclusive green economy; a model that favours human well-being and social equity, while minimising harm done to the environment. Moving to a greener economy could even create 24 million new jobs globally by 2030, according to a report by the International Labour Organization, and the construction and retrofitting of more energy efficient buildings is a significant catalyst for green job opportunities.
 

5. Corporate social responsibility (CSR): 

Whether it’s delivering on Net Zero carbon targets or meeting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it’s increasingly incumbent on organisations to adopt sustainable practices. Not only is green construction beneficial for the environment, but is closely linked to an organisation’s reputation and brand equity. Environmental considerations weigh heavily on the public conscious, and green construction is quickly becoming key to building trust.
 

6. Attract and retain talent: 

There’s no doubt that a competitive salary remains a powerful way of attracting and retaining talent, yet many professionals are taking a broader view. Our UK Salary and Recruitment Trends 2023 guide revealed that over four in five professionals (81%) claim an organisation’s purpose to be one of the most important considerations when considering a new role, while three quarters of professionals (75%) value an organisation’s commitment to sustainability. Green credentials have become a competitive differentiator in the race to retain talent, and sustainable development plays an integral part in this.
 

Closing thoughts: the future of construction is green

In order to achieve long-term growth and resilience, organisations will be required to embrace green construction — from a project’s conception to completion, and maintenance thereafter.

Adopting a sustainable philosophy to construction is not an overnight process; it requires the buy-in of key stakeholders, along with the right talent, technology and partnerships needed to drive change. Fortunately, there are more opportunities in green construction than ever before, and momentum will be firmly on your side.

Request a call back from our green building services recruitment team to realise your career ambitions and drive sustainable innovation in this pioneering industry.