Exploring the Inner Workings of the 2023 Sustainable Construction Industry Report
In a recent global study published by Ramboll, a leading engineering, architecture, and consultancy company, the importance of sustainability within the business environment has been underscored. The study, focusing on future trends and technology in the built environment, reveals some compelling insights about the state of sustainability in the construction and real estate sector.
Scott Brookes, Director for Ramboll, comments on a standout statistic from this year's study - only 50% of respondents have embedded net-zero buildings into their organization's business strategy towards 2030. This statistic, according to Brookes, emphasizes the need for more action in achieving a decarbonized future and urban prosperity, particularly with regards to existing building stock.
The study also reveals that 62% of respondents consider 'circular economy' to be the most important trend for the construction and real estate sector. This sentiment is even higher among UK respondents, with 66% believing it to be a major issue. The 'circular economy' is an approach that aims to eliminate waste and the continual use of resources, focusing on keeping products, components, and materials at their highest utility and value at all times.
Interestingly, higher investment costs are considered the biggest barrier preventing sustainability from being prioritized within organizations, with 61% of respondents stating this. Despite this barrier, 60% of organizations have an increased focus on refurbishment, according to the study. The percentage of respondents striving for biodiversity in major renovations or new construction projects has also increased, from 10% in 2021 to 22%.
In addition to the study's findings on trends, it also provides deep insight into the 'what, how, and why' of sustainability within the business environment. Scott Brookes emphasizes the importance of turning ambition into action, given that 98% of respondents consider sustainability important for successful business operations. This figure represents an increase of 4% from 2021.
Other notable developments highlighted in the study include Lidl's announcement to change all milk caps to clear, improving their recyclability, and the supermarket's plans to stock less meat in its stores and incorporate ocean bound plastic into its water bottle packaging.
Despite the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), effective from December 30, 2025, requiring companies to ensure deforestation-free supply chains for certain raw materials, no specific companies were explicitly named in 2023 as announcing a transition of their environmental reporting to a particular scheme aimed at better recycling and sustainability. However, the upcoming shifts in corporate reporting and environmental accountability are implied.
In conclusion, the Ramboll study offers valuable insights into the current state and future trends of sustainability in the built environment. It underscores the need for more action towards net-zero buildings, the importance of the circular economy, and the challenges faced in prioritizing sustainability due to higher investment costs. As more organizations focus on refurbishment and biodiversity, and as trends like the circular economy continue to gain traction, the future of sustainable building and real estate looks promising.
