Buildings and construction spew a whopping 37% of the world’s energy-related carbon emissions. That’s not just a slice of the pie. It’s more than a third of the whole thing. Even in Australia, where we pride ourselves on our natural landscape, our buildings still account for 20% of what we’re pumping into the atmosphere.
As property developers, this isn’t just some inconvenient truth we can ignore. It’s actually our chance to flip the script. After all, if we’re part of the problem, we’re positioned perfectly to be part of the solution.
The Carbon Footprint of the Built Environment
The relationship between development and emissions runs deeper than meets the eye. From the extraction and manufacturing of construction materials to transportation, on-site activities, operational energy consumption, and eventual demolition, buildings leave carbon footprints at every stage of their lifecycle.
Construction and property development contribute to emissions through two primary sources.
Operational Carbon
This refers to emissions generated during the building’s use, such as heating, cooling, lighting, and equipment operation. While renewable energy integration has helped reduce operational carbon, it remains a major contributor to the sector’s carbon footprint.
Embodied Carbon
Often overlooked, embodied carbon includes emissions from materials and construction processes before the building is operational. Materials like steel, concrete, and cement are significant contributors, accounting for approximately 9% of global energy-related CO2 emissions.
Reducing embodied carbon requires rethinking material choices and construction methods. For example, using mass timber or supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) can significantly cut emissions. What if developers prioritised renovating existing buildings instead of new construction? This approach could save substantial embodied carbon while promoting resource efficiency.
Sustainable Design and Green Building Practices
Sustainability begins at the design stage. Developers can adopt green building practices that emphasise the following.
- Energy Efficiency: Incorporating energy-efficient HVAC systems, lighting controls, and renewable energy sources like solar panels ensures long-term savings.
- Eco-Friendly Materials: The use of sustainable materials such as bamboo, recycled metals, mud bricks, and straw bales to minimise environmental impact while maintaining durability.
- Waste Reduction: Modular construction and off-site manufacturing reduce waste and improve project predictability.
Green building certifications like LEED or Green Star provide benchmarks for sustainability. These certifications not only enhance property value but also attract eco-conscious buyers by emphasising energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. Why not aim for certification on every project?
Technology and Innovation in Sustainable Development
Technology is changing how we build sustainable properties. Here are practical solutions that work now:
- Smart Buildings: Buildings with sensors that adjust lighting, heating and cooling based on actual usage. These systems reduce energy waste and monitor water consumption to help cut costs.
- Renewable Energy: Solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems can power buildings while reducing dependence on the grid. Many developments now incorporate these as standard features.
- Better Materials: New concrete formulations and recycled materials are reducing carbon footprints without sacrificing strength or increasing costs significantly.
These technologies help reduce environmental impact while improving the bottom line through lower operating costs. They also create more comfortable spaces that attract and retain tenants longer.
If we adopted these approaches across all new developments, the reduction in emissions would be substantial while creating better buildings that cost less to operate.
How Developers Can Lead the Change
Property developers have a unique opportunity to directly drive sustainability. Here are some examples of actionable steps they can take.
Educate Teams on Sustainability
Developers with advanced qualifications like a Master of Property Development are better equipped to implement green strategies and navigate environmental regulations. Not only that, but they’re better placed to help educate others in turn.
Set Sustainability Goals
Developers can conduct embodied carbon studies to establish baselines and track progress. Through their work, they can aim for net-zero projects by integrating renewable energy sources and sustainable materials into projects.
Collaborate Across Industries
Developers should look to partner with architects, engineers, and suppliers who prioritise sustainability. For example, they can source locally to help reduce transportation emissions.
Advocate for Policy Change
Those working in property development should venture to support government incentives for sustainable practices and push for stricter environmental standards in construction. While change is often prompted through group efforts, it starts with the individual to get the ball rolling.
Promote Community Benefits
Sustainable urban spaces enhance liveability while addressing affordability challenges—key principles taught in future-focused property development programs.
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The property sector needs to get serious about sustainability now. This isn’t complicated. Use green building methods. Adopt new technologies. Lead with purpose.
The goal is simple: create low-carbon buildings and neighbourhoods that work better for people and the planet.
Those who step up will set the standard. Those who don’t will get left behind. It’s as simple as that.
