Insight into the 2023 Market Analysis for Energy-Efficient Structures
A new study, titled the Sustainable Buildings Market Study, has shed light on the trends, strategies, and perspectives of various stakeholders in the business environment regarding sustainability. The study, produced by Ramboll, a global engineering, architecture, and consultancy company, reveals a progression in the focus on sustainability within the construction and real estate sector.
Sustainability Gaining Importance
The study reveals that an impressive 98% of survey respondents consider sustainability crucial for successful business operations, marking a 4% increase from 2021. However, only half of these respondents have embedded net-zero buildings into their organization's business strategy towards 2030.
Embracing the Circular Economy
The study indicates a shift in focus towards the 'circular economy' and refurbishment in the construction and real estate sector. A significant 62% of respondents think 'circular economy' is the most important trend for the sector, up from 49% in 2021. Scott Brookes, Director for Ramboll, emphasizes the importance of embracing the existing building stock to co-create a decarbonized future towards net zero.
Prioritizing Biodiversity
The study shows a progression in the percentage of respondents striving for biodiversity in building projects. While only 10% did so in 2021, this figure has increased to 22% in the current study, representing an increase of 12%.
Barriers to Sustainability
Despite the growing importance of sustainability, higher investment costs are considered the biggest barrier preventing it from being prioritized within organizations. This is particularly true in the UK, where 66% of respondents reported a higher percentage of considering higher investment costs a major issue.
Notable Initiatives
Companies like Heidelberg Materials, Ypsomed, EY, and Savills Investment Management are emphasizing the integration of sustainable reporting systems and clear climate transition plans into their organizational processes to achieve net-zero buildings by 2030. Heidelberg Materials focuses on CO₂ reduction in building materials, Ypsomed implements ecodesign principles and science-based targets, EY supports climate transition planning aligned with reporting standards, and Savills IM centers on science-based CO₂ reduction targets and innovative climate solutions.
Other Key Findings
The study also reveals that 'carbon neutrality' is the most important trend, with 63% of respondents. Lidl, a leading supermarket, has announced plans to stock less meat in its stores and incorporate ocean bound plastic into its water bottle packaging as part of its sustainability efforts.
In his commentary on the study, Scott Brookes reminds us to make every effort to turn ambition into action regarding sustainability. The global study, published last week, focuses on future trends and technology in the built environment.
