Interest in embodied carbon accounting and smart buildings is growing among commercial real estate professionals, according to a recent survey by the STO Building Group.
There is increasing momentum to account for carbon emissions, with 52% of those surveyed understanding embodied carbon—the carbon dioxide emitted during the manufacture, transport, and construction of building materials—together with end-of-life emissions. Forty eight percent will require embodied carbon accounting on future projects.
Smart building technologies are perceived to help with building efficiency. Nearly half of respondents say that one-quarter or fewer of the buildings in their portfolios are “intelligent” buildings. But, 60% plan to incorporate sensors and technologies into their projects to track sustainability measures during the next two years.
Resilience continues to lag behind other concerns. More respondents to this year’s survey (58% in 2019 vs. 45% in 2018) acknowledge that industry standards for resilient building are not adequate. But, only 42% plan to seek external expertise.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Aug 25, 2016
Freddie Mac extends efforts to fund multifamily energy/water efficiency projects
The Multifamily Green Advantage targets existing buildings.
Codes | Aug 24, 2016
Weak building codes no match for recent natural disasters, say industry experts
The recent floods and wildfires in Alberta are being cited as proof.
Legislation | Aug 24, 2016
World Trade Center contractor found guilty of minority-owned business fraud
The company used two minority firms as fronts in a nearly $1 billion scheme.
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2016
Federal construction contractors propose reforms to federal project delivery
Industry leaders offer how procurement system could be improved.
Legislation | Aug 19, 2016
California lawmakers may take action to address contractor negligence
An assembly committee heard testimony on deadly balcony collapse that occurred last year.
Energy Efficiency | Aug 17, 2016
Investor Confidence Project aimed at raising trustworthiness on energy efficiency projects
The new initiative screens projects to see if they are investor-ready.
Standards | Aug 17, 2016
U.K.’S BREEAM green building standard enters U.S. market
The standard is touted as a cost-effective alternative to LEED.
Standards | Aug 16, 2016
Standard for conducting, reporting energy audits open for review
A joint ASHRAE/ACCA proposal seeks comments from industry professionals.
Legislation | Aug 10, 2016
Calif. bill would speed up environmental lawsuits on certain projects
A nine-month limit has been proposed for some $100 million-plus projects.
Resiliency | Aug 10, 2016
White House pushes for better finance strategies for disaster mitigation and resilience
The move highlights innovative insurance, mortgage, tax, and finance-based strategies.