Dispelling the 7 Talked About Myths Around Sustainable Construction
Sustainability in building-construction is a subject that cannot be easily disregarded. In this article Extension Architecture attempts to debunk the myths surrounding sustainable construction and aims to encourage & help adopt practices that are hindered due to misconceptions.

The building & construction sector is alone responsible for about 26% of carbon emissions across the globe. A report from the UN environment programme suggests that 34% of the global energy demand were consumed by the building & construction industry, while 37% of energy and process related Co2 emissions occurred in 2022 alone (apparently the last sourced data).
In the UK, Co2 emissions saw a decline of 1.7% accounting for 10.8 million metric tons of Co2 emissions in 2022, the decline though can be attributed to the post pandemic era considering it was only when activities were starting to flex their muscles. The goal however is to see processes and practices in place that can help achieve the ambitious Co2 free emissions by driving net zero initiatives & standards. The UK net zero buildings standard is one such initiative striding towards achieving sustainability.
Despite being a mainstream issue, sustainability in construction is marred with misconceptions and speculations. Putting an end to such thoughts is imperative to drive forward-looking strategies and benefit the stakeholders in this profession. So, let’s dive straight into the 7 myths and contradicting facts surrounding sustainability in building & construction.
Myth 1
Adopting Green Construction Practice is Highly Expensive
Fact
- At first, adopting green practices should always be considered as an investment and not an expenditure
- Green buildings make optimal & efficient use of energy sources that lead to lower consumption of energy sources, resulting in lower utility bills.
- Sustainable construction practices always incur low maintenance & operating costs due to use of renewable energy and recycled materials resulting in reduced waste.
- Though green practices may demand slightly expensive upfront costs, they result in significant cost-savings in the long run.
Myth 2
Sustainable Building Projects Take Longer Time
Fact
- Sustainable projects make use of renewable materials that are usually light in weight and can be easily stored.
- The fact that sustainable materials are often prefabricated off-site makes them highly easy for transportation and hence can be quickly assembly when on-site
Myth 3
Sustainable Architecture is not Viable for the Urban Setting
Fact
- If not for the urban, sustainable architecture may not be a topic of fierce discussion
- With more stress on climate change, making a Co2 free environment and net zero carbon emissions, the urban ecosystem is in fact adopting green measures at a faster pace
- Green roofs, solar panels, skylights, vertical gardens, and wall insulations are increasing in popularity and are benefitting homeowners immensely by seamlessly blending with the urban design
Myth 4
Sustainable Materials are Difficult to Find
Fact
- As a structural material bamboos can be used as posts & beams and are readily available in local gardens, nurseries and can also be purchased online
- Straw bales are generally used in attics, walls, and ceilings for temperature control and can be found with many retail suppliers and local gardens. As a renewable material straw bales can actually be replanted, which makes them more available
- As an insulating material Hempcrete can be readily available among many building product dealers, retail suppliers etc.
- Other materials such as corks, timber, wool can be easily accessed as they are readily available
Myth 5
Sustainable Construction Demands High Skilled Labour
Fact
Most sustainable construction techniques are prefabricated and come with seamless and innovative design which can be handled by medium skilled workers or even workers with less experience and expertise
Myth 6
Sustainable Initiatives are Only for New Builds
Fact
- There is no doubt that sustainable or green construction techniques are more convenient to integrate in new builds, but it can also be retrofitted with the same effectiveness and ease to an existing building too.
- Retrofitting does not lead to excess renovation, redesign, or demolition of the building
- Retrofits actually consume less energy, leads to lowered waste generation than new builds
Myth 7
Sustainable Certification & Standards are Just Gimmicks
Fact
- International standards such as BREEAM, LEED, WELL Building Standard, and the National Green Building Standard (NGBS) act as checks and guide energy efficiency to ensure sustainability in construction
- Sustainable standard-certified properties function with low-operating costs and are considered of high value with great ROI and incur high resale value
- Sustainable standard-certified properties are generally eligible for government grants and other incentives
- Sustainable integrations prioritize regular energy assessment, lending criteria, net zero, and climate change initiatives
Conclusion:
Sustainable construction is not just a passing trend. It is here to stay. Net zero measures and Co2 free emissions will continue to be long-term goals. Climate change will always be a crucial factor and continues to be a hot topic for international initiatives and deliberations.
Breaking down the myths and looking for truth will clear the air and make the road clearer for easier adoption. To trust is the first thing. As a homeowner, it might be quite demanding of you to consider sustainable integration in terms of the upfront cost and some headwork. In the long run it is you who will be the clear winner in all aspects.
At Extension Architecture, we are your go-to experts if you are planning to integrate green practices into your home. Be it a new build or a retrofit, our experienced consultants and architects are always at your disposal to help you embrace a greener and sustainable future.