The global demand for 'green' office buildings is experiencing a slowdown, primarily due to the controversial policies of the Trump administration. A survey of construction industry professionals reveals a significant shift in interest, particularly in the United States, where the growth in demand has stagnated. This trend is concerning, given the substantial environmental impact of buildings, which accounted for 34% of global carbon emissions in 2023. The majority of these emissions stem from heating, cooling, and powering structures, with construction contributing significantly as well. The UN emphasizes the urgent need for accelerated action in the buildings sector to meet climate goals, but the Rics survey indicates a potential setback. Green buildings employ various techniques to reduce environmental impact, such as using low-carbon materials, conserving water, and utilizing renewable energy. Despite this, the survey shows a decline in professionals measuring embodied carbon in projects, with 46% not measuring it, up from 34% the previous year. This lack of measurement may hinder progress towards sustainability. The Trump administration's efforts to dismantle environmental protections have undermined confidence in green standards, further exacerbating the slowdown in demand. The survey also highlights a shift in the balance of building professionals reporting higher demand for sustainable commercial buildings, with a sharp drop from 25% to 11% in the US. However, outside North and South America, the demand growth remains positive, albeit lower than in previous years. This complex situation underscores the need for continued advocacy and policy support to drive the adoption of green building practices.
