Green Policy Development and Its Impact on the Construction Industry in China

Abstract

China will account for around 50% of the global built up area by 2020. To curb the energy demand and environmental conservation the government launched several programs and policies. Combined, the increase in construction activities and stringent enforcement of the green laws, have created demand for sustainable buildings and economy. Moreover, China adopted two green building rating systems: Three-Star and LEED. This paper examines the green policies and their effects on the construction industry in China. It reviews past literature on green policy development with focus on origin and other major milestones. Furthermore, it comprehensively explores the, direct and indirect, impacts of the green development China. The papers primary study done among experts practising sustainable developments points out: the current practices and drivers and challenges of the green development in China. The major drivers include Government enforcement policies, incentives and the developer’s vision. On the other hand, the major challenges were green certification- costly and time-consuming, cost of green projects, and lack of qualified green suppliers.