SUSTAINABILITY AND CLIMATE RESPONSE
Measured progress as sustainability shifts toward mainstream adoption
Sustainability activity in the Irish construction sector remains focused on pragmatic, cost-effective measures, particularly retrofit and operational efficiency. Insulation, heat pumps and window upgrades dominate delivery, reflecting a preference for achievable, near-term carbon reductions in a cost-constrained environment.
Sustainability engagement within the Irish construction sector continues to build gradually but remains fragmented and largely policy-driven rather than market-led. While awareness and reporting requirements are increasing, data suggests that sustainability has yet to transition into a core commercial driver of project delivery.
However, there are early signs of progress. Our trend data shows a gradual shift toward mid-level adoption (26.0–50.0% of projects), indicating that sustainability requirements are beginning to move from niche to more mainstream consideration. That said, the relatively low proportion of projects achieving high levels of commitment (above 75.0%) suggests that deep decarbonisation remains limited to specific, often publicly driven schemes.
Energy efficiency measures within retrofit projects show a range of adoption. Insulation improvements (roof, wall, and floor) lead at 28% of projects, followed by heat pump installations at 24% and window upgrades at 20%. Solar photovoltaic systems account for a further 14%, while other interventions represent 10%, and battery storage remains limited at just 4%, reflecting a continued focus on established, fabric-first and low-complexity technologies.
"We continue to invest significantly in ESG methods in particular embodied carbon calculations and other environmental and sustainability initiatives."
Ireland Market Intelligence survey respondent
Embodied carbon assessment, an increasingly critical component of lifecycle sustainability, is also improving, albeit from a low base. While the proportion of projects undertaking assessments has increased, a large share of contractors still report either no assessment or only minimal application (0–25.0% of projects). This indicates that, despite growing industry awareness, whole-life carbon measurement is not yet embedded in standard project processes.
"We are continually looking for new construction technologies. At present, we are trying to bring light gauge steel frame construction into our projects where possible."
Ireland Market Intelligence survey respondent
Overall, the sector is moving towards ‘achievable sustainability’, with delivery aligned to current cost and programme constraints. The reliance on public-sector-led projects further shapes sustainability outcomes. Government-funded schemes are more likely to include formal sustainability requirements and therefore continue to act as a key driver of adoption. Conversely, the private sector, particularly in commercial and residential development, has shown slower uptake, reflecting tighter margins and financing constraints.
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