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The built sector’s roles and responsibilities regarding the race to net zero carbon came under the spotlight at this year’s UK Construction Week Conference in Birmingham.
Recent survey findings revealed that just under 50 per cent of facilities management professionals across commercial real estate, public sector, healthcare, and education only allocate 0-10 per cent of their budgets to sustainability initiatives. A further 30 per cent of respondents were unsure of their sustainability budget, pointing to a notable lack of visibility in sustainability financial planning across the sector.
As part of its State of FM Report 2025, SFG20, the industry standard for building maintenance, surveyed 190 professionals from various roles in the built environment sector to assess challenges and priorities regarding facility management and carbon emissions.
Net zero carbon targets
The survey findings spotlight that there is no clear correlation between the net zero target dates set by organisations and the sector that they operate in, showing inconsistencies across the FM industry.
Although 38 per cent of organisations marked 2030 as their target date, aligning with global sustainability targets, a further 28 per cent selected either 2040 or 2050, showing that, long-term, there is still uncertainty around net carbon emission aspirations and whether these match efforts within organisations. A final third (32 per cent) indicated they have not yet set a target date for achieving net carbon emissions.
Sustainability challenges across the sector
With obstacles differing across organisations and estates, the survey revealed some consistent challenges to achieving sustainability goals for FM professionals, with more than 70 per cent stating budget limitations as the main issue. Further challenges revealed included:
- A resistance to change within the organisation (72 per cent)
- Difficulties in measuring and tracking progress (30 per cent)
- A lack of internal expertise around sustainability (22 per cent)
- Compliance and regulatory requirements (38 per cent)
Paul Bullard, Product Director, at SFG20, said: “The construction and building maintenance sectors play a significant role in the UK’s attempts at reducing carbon emissions. These sectors continue to be huge contributors to emissions, accounting for 37 per cent of the global total.
“As the drive towards net zero carbon continues, it’s evident that many organisations are still falling short when it comes to setting clear targets and allocating the necessary resources.
“It’s encouraging to see more businesses and FM professionals recognising the importance of sustainability, but the path to net zero carbon is complex and requires more than just ambition. To overcome the barriers, a strategic and integrated approach is essential.”
To download a free copy of the ‘State of Facilities Management Report 2025’ click here.
