The contractor's role in the sustainable construction industry

With the advent of sustainable building ordinances in the USA and internationally, contractors are increasingly required to deliver sustainable projects; however, they have traditionally not been considered partners in developing the sustainability goals and objectives for projects. Moreover, as alternative project delivery methods become more popular, contractors have an opportunity and - in an increasing number of cases - a requirement, to take a larger role in sustainability efforts across the building life cycle. Understanding the contractor's self-perceived role, in addition to their incentives for participation, in the sustainable construction industry is imperative to providing insight into their future role within the industry. This paper presents data from and analysis of a survey of US-based general contractors. The survey asked general contractors for their opinions and viewpoints regarding sustainable construction; respondents provided feedback about corporate profitability, growth forecast and specific obstacles to sustainable building. The authors present a potential path from the current state of sustainable construction industry in the USA to a projected future state (both characterised by the survey responses). Finally, factors that will affect the transition to the future state of the sustainable construction industry are discussed.