Construction is one of the sectors most exposed to ESG considerations. Decarbonisation is a particular concern, as commonly used construction materials account for a significant percentage of carbon emissions.
In 2020, the United Nations Environment Programme calculated that the building sector was responsible for 38% of global energy-related CO2 emissions – and that annual progress in decarbonisation had halved between 2016 and 2019. Successful decarbonisation will require major changes in the sector, with much greater levels of both investment and innovation.
We highlight ten top-level steps for construction companies that want to maximise their ESG performance and benefits.