UK construction industry embraces sustainable development goals for future

Mike Kagioglou, the new President of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), emphasizes the importance of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the construction industry. He aims to strengthen connections between the sector and academia while promoting sustainability across various dimensions, particularly focusing on climate change, biodiversity, and the development of sustainable cities. Kagioglou is forming a task force of major construction companies to encourage meaningful change and assess their performance against the SDGs. He challenges the misconception that sustainability equates to high costs, advocating for larger organizations to lead the charge in addressing these issues. Kagioglou believes that the higher education sector has set a precedent for commitment to the SDGs, and he envisions a similar adoption within the construction industry. He calls for collaboration among construction companies to demonstrate their dedication to sustainable practices. Additionally, Kagioglou urges the government to support the construction sector in achieving its sustainability goals, particularly in areas such as skills development, apprenticeship reform, and green strategies. He highlights the significance of retrofitting existing buildings to enhance sustainability and functionality, acknowledging that infrastructure often undergoes multiple repurposing throughout its lifecycle. As he embarks on his presidency, Kagioglou is determined to focus on these priorities, aiming to change the narrative around sustainability in construction and ensure that the sector is equipped to meet future challenges effectively.