Digital tools are playing a larger role in sustainable construction as project management platforms expand in scope and adoption. Recent advances in digital innovation are helping builders cut material waste, reduce emissions on site and maintain compliance with sustainability goals. By improving project oversight, these systems support whole life carbon assessment and make it easier to track embodied carbon throughout the supply chain. Smarter digital workflows are increasingly seen as essential for sustainable building design and low carbon construction materials.

The focus on forest protection remains central to environmental sustainability in construction because timber continues to be a critical resource. Brazil has launched the Tropical Forest Forever Facility with a $1 billion initial commitment, directly targeting the embodied carbon in materials associated with deforestation. Protecting forests underpins renewable building materials and reduces the carbon footprint of construction, supporting the industry shift toward net zero whole life carbon outcomes.

European Union deforestation regulation has been delayed due to technical and data challenges. This setback slows the transition to deforestation-free supply chains and puts pressure on companies undertaking life cycle cost planning and lifecycle assessment for building projects. Without clear timelines, firms face uncertainty when aligning circular construction strategies and eco-design for buildings with evolving import rules.

Rising demand for circular economy in construction is reflected in corporate investment decisions. While Mars’ move into renewable energy for its manufacturing plants does not target buildings directly, it signals a growing demand for clean energy infrastructure that supports energy-efficient buildings and sustainable building practices. Industrial actors extending investment into low carbon design also generate indirect momentum for net zero carbon buildings and green construction standards.

India is seeing strong interest in construction-specific digital solutions that enhance environmental sustainability in construction. Platforms such as Onsite allow contractors to track project progress with greater accuracy, embedding life cycle thinking in construction and improving building lifecycle performance. The potential to reduce embodied carbon, support eco-friendly construction and maximise resource efficiency in construction could transform sustainable material specification and low embodied carbon materials adoption at scale.

Across regulation, supply chains and digital transformation, the sector is laying foundations for carbon neutral construction and decarbonising the built environment. With greater emphasis on whole life carbon management, lifecycle assessment and sustainable building practices, the drive toward net zero carbon buildings continues to shape design, materials and performance standards worldwide.