RICS calls for a comprehensive sustainability approach that includes evidence-based targets, mandatory carbon assessments (such as WLCA) for all new projects, and enhanced training for built environment professionals. 

The report also recommends that policymakers set clear, national targets to aid decarbonisation, alongside the enforcement of minimum energy performance standards, building codes, and climate resilience benchmarks.

"Last year, I described the RICS Sustainability Report as a wake-up call to our industry, pointing out that our progress on sustainability was lagging behind what is required. Despite that, I expressed confidence that the 2050 net-zero target was still within reach, if we pursued it wholeheartedly. This year’s report, however, suggests that the level of commitment necessary to meet these goals is still lacking, presenting a mixed but underwhelming picture overall,” says RICS President Tina Paillet. 

Looking at factors deemed to be holding back the industry, in the UK, 31% of respondents state that a lack of government incentives and policy uncertainty are a main barrier preventing the widespread adoption of sustainable practices across the industry.

Other factors cited were high initial costs of green building practices and the high costs of sustainable materials. However, 22% of respondents stated that they measure biodiversity on all projects, while 31% measure it on more than 50% of projects, which are some of the highest figures globally.

Robert Toomey, Senior Public Affairs & Policy Officer at RICS, adds that greater resolve is needed by business, government and industry to ensure these sustainability challenges are met.