SR505 Skills and competencies for sustainable construction: Perspectives of architects and designers (2025)

This report examines the skills and competencies architects and designers 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 gaps in zero carbon knowledge, particularly in embodied carbon, life cycle assessments and sustainable material selection. Architects and designers recognise the need for better training, regulatory support and collaboration across disciplines. The report calls for improved education programmes, stronger policy frameworks and industry-wide efforts to integrate sustainability principles into everyday practice. Architects and designers see themselves as key influencers in driving change but emphasise that government regulations, client demand and education providers also play crucial roles. Lessons from international best practice underscore the need for Aotearoa New Zealand to adopt more comprehensive sustainability policies and training initiatives to meet its climate goals.