Consumers are increasingly frustrated by companies that only take a stance on environmental or social issues without tangible action. COGNITION Smart Data shows that “talk without action” is the least important environmental initiative a company can take, an expectation that applies equally to builders.
When we compare consumer expectations of manufacturers with the actions builders are already taking, the alignment is clear. For example, initiatives such as minimizing waste and using low embodied carbon materials, including recycled or locally sourced products, are precisely what consumers value.
Many builders are clearly on the right path, but to keep up with evolving consumer expectations they will need to bolster their sustainable building practices. This includes designing all electric, connected, healthy, high performance homes that incorporate sustainably manufactured products with low embodied carbon backed by Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).
EPDs are increasingly capturing consumer attention. COGNITION Smart Data shows that 64% of builders report increased consumer demand for EPD-backed products. Among these builders, 41% consider EPDs a must-have when selecting products.
EPDs provide a common language across the value chain, allowing manufacturers, builders, and homeowners to move beyond high-level sustainability claims and engage in more substantive, data-driven discussions about embodied carbon and material performance.
By integrating these practices, builders not only meet consumer expectations but can position themselves as leaders in the next generation of green building.
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