SR504 Skills and competencies for sustainable construction: Perspectives of construction trades (2025)

This report examines the skills and competencies that construction trades, especially builders, need to support sustainable construction. It is part of a broader research initiative aimed at accelerating workforce development for sustainable building practices in Aotearoa New Zealand. The study combines qualitative interviews with more than 60 industry professionals and a nationwide survey of 308 construction sector workers. Findings highlight that builders tend to learn on the job, with zero-carbon knowledge developing as demand arises rather than through proactive training. Industry professionals emphasise the role of client demand, design specifications and government regulation in driving sustainable practices. A trickle-down model of sustainable construction suggests that early adopters such as large firms can influence broader industry upskilling. Our research outlines that enhanced training programmes, stronger policy support and industry-wide collaboration, especially with technical and vocational education, are critical to embed sustainable construction into standard construction practices. By aligning education, regulation and market incentives, Aotearoa New Zealand’s construction sector can better contribute to national climate goals and the transition to a zero-carbon built environment.