How can the construction sector turn climate ambitions into action?

Change requires courage—and knowledge sharing

Innovation is essential for driving change. But innovation is about more than just ideas—it’s about having the courage to put those ideas into action, to venture into the unknown, and to challenge established ways of working. Research shows that this often means accepting the risk of failure before finding solutions that can be scaled up.

“If we don’t take risks and dare to fail, we won’t get these innovative solutions. Failing isn’t wrong; it’s part of the process.” At RISE, we collaborate with several partners who dare to test and challenge—and we see that it’s making a difference. There’s an incredible amount happening in the industry right now,” said Andreas Huss, project manager and architect at RISE, during the full-day Forum Samhällsbyggnad conference, where the public sector and the business community come together to strengthen societal development.

Knowledge sharing is another key prerequisite for progress. More and more stakeholders are now opening up their data, experiences, and lessons learned—a trend that is accelerating development.

“Sometimes you have to have the courage to go it alone to make progress. But if we’re going to go really far, we need to go together,” said Magnus Österbring, Research and Innovation Coordinator at NCC.

“Climate requirements drive development”

One of the most common questions in the construction sector is how climate goals should be incorporated into procurement processes, project requirements, and working methods. To achieve real change, we need both strict requirements and working methods that enable innovation—something that requires a balanced combination of concrete actions and long-term development.

– First, it’s about setting concrete and ambitious, yet realistic requirements in all projects, which make sustainable construction possible right here and now. “Second, we’re investing in pilot projects that challenge and test, and that create the conditions for subsequent widespread implementation. And third, we’re working closely with the market to stimulate the solutions of the future,” said Nina Jacobsson Stålheim, Head of Development for Ecological Sustainability at Förvaltnings AB Framtiden.

She emphasizes that climate requirements should not only guide today’s construction but also serve as a driver of innovation and a benchmark for the future. As standards are gradually tightened, this drives both technological development and more resource-efficient construction.

“Climate requirements drive development. With stricter requirements at the national level, we would see a tremendous impact.”

Circularity – an undervalued business opportunity

Although circular construction is highlighted as a key to both climate benefits and resource efficiency, linear models are still more profitable in the short term. At the same time, the Circularity Gap Report (CGR) “The Value Gap: Sweden” shows that the lack of circularity results in enormous economic losses—especially in the construction sector. The report explores the connection between circularity and economic value, and offers a new perspective on how linear principles lead to economic inefficiencies.

“Historically, we have measured prosperity based on the value we create. Few have looked at the value we lose,” said Ann-Charlotte Mellquist, researcher in the circular economy at RISE.

The report highlights significant economic losses in the construction and real estate sectors:

• Every year, 180 billion Swedish kronor is lost when buildings and materials are demolished and discarded prematurely
• Overconsumption, such as oversized homes and aesthetic renovations, results in an additional 123 billion Swedish kronor in losses per year

“An important point to consider is that behind the significant financial losses lies a huge business opportunity. There is great potential for companies that can capture this value—for example, through renovation, repair, reuse, or by making use of underutilized spaces,” said Ann-Charlotte Mellquist.

Sustainable construction strengthens both resilience and preparedness

Increasing climate-related risks, geopolitical uncertainties, and disruptions in the supply of materials mean that the industry’s preparedness is becoming increasingly important. Sustainable construction not only helps reduce climate impact but also contributes to more robust projects and more stable communities.

“With digital tools and data-driven methods, we can better anticipate problems. At the same time, sustainable material choices and circular flows provide increased resilience over time. A resilient construction sector strengthens both society and the economy,” says Andreas Huss.

Move from strategy to action together with RISE

RISE helps you take the next step toward more sustainable construction. With us as your partner, you’ll receive support throughout the transition—and the opportunity to strengthen your competitiveness.

We offer, among other things:

• support in the transition to circular business models
• research collaborations that drive development forward
• support in climate requirements/ambitions and implementation
• testing and certification of innovative systems, materials, and products

Read more and contact us:

>> Center for Quality Assured Reuse in the Construction Sector
>> Circular transition