The construction industry poses significant environmental challenges, including high carbon emissions from material production, transportation, and on-site activities. Cement production alone accounts for around 8% of global CO₂ emissions.
Construction generates vast amounts of waste, much of which ends up in landfills, adding to pollution. Deforestation and habitat destruction often occur to clear land for building, threatening biodiversity. Energy-intensive processes and machinery contribute to air and noise pollution.
Water use during construction can strain local resources, while runoff may carry pollutants into water bodies. Non-sustainable materials, such as plastics and synthetic chemicals, can linger in ecosystems for decades. Improperly designed buildings may lead to inefficient energy use, exacerbating climate change. Urban sprawl caused by construction disrupts natural landscapes and ecosystems.
Transitioning to green building practices and circular economies is vital to address these environmental challenges.