Foreword

The built environment forms the backbone of our lives and societies in the Nordic region. Our building stock is not just a collection of structures; it is a vital part of our cultural heritage. Over the past few decades, advancements in construction practices have led to the development of competitive and efficient methods as well as innovative designs and solutions.

However, it has become increasingly evident that we cannot continue to build with the same reliance on raw materials and the same level of environmental impact. Fortunately, many influential forces within the Nordics have recognised the significant opportunity we have to build more sustainably. The Nordic Sustainable Construction Programme is an example of how we in the Nordics can unite and collaborate to find solutions to this pressing issue.

Challenges such as resource scarcity, the need for circularity, and the utilisation of existing building stock are pressing in all Nordic countries. This makes it more crucial than ever to share effective solutions and inspire one another. I am delighted to note that Nordic cooperation in creating a sustainable construction sector strengthens the region internally and that our experience and analyses are sought after in the EU and the rest of the world.

Significant developments are also occurring outside the Nordic countries, and one of our strengths is that we can support each other in implementing new regulations from the EU. The first phase of the Nordic Sustainable Construction Programme has demonstrated that the knowledge, discussions and data generated by the work packages provide a strong foundation for decision-makers and the industry, paving the way for much-needed changes in practice.

I hope that the results of this programme will be widely disseminated and utilised as a valuable resource and that we will continue to see the Nordic countries working together on this critical agenda.

Karen Ellemann
General Secretary
The Nordic Council of Ministers