The sustainability agenda has been gaining prominence in the construction sector. With the advancement of environmental policies, the demands of more conscious investors and consumers, construction companies need to go beyond delivering projects — it is necessary to build responsibly. In this scenario, the carbon credits in civil construction appear as a strategic opportunity to reduce environmental impacts, generate value and stand out in the market.
What are carbon credits and how do they work?
Os carbon credits are certificates that represent the reduction or removal of one ton of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. They are part of an emissions compensation system, in which companies that are able to reduce their impacts can sell these credits to others that have not yet achieved their environmental goals.
There are two main markets: the regulated, which involves legal obligations in countries or blocs that have adopted climate goals; and the volunteer, where companies buy credits to fulfill sustainability commitments, even without legal requirements. Both have been growing significantly in recent years.
The impact of emissions on civil construction
A Civil construction is responsible for a significant share of global carbon emissions, especially due to cement production, the use of fossil fuels, and the transportation of materials. This means that the sector is increasingly under the spotlight when it comes to decarbonization.
Adopt sustainable practices and seek ways to Offset emissions it's not just an environmental requirement: it's an opportunity to innovate, reduce long-term costs and align with market expectations.
How can construction companies obtain or benefit from carbon credits?
There are several ways for construction companies to enter this ecosystem:
- Choosing sustainable suppliers: by acquiring inputs from companies that use renewable and traceable raw materials - such as wood from planted forests and with responsible management - the construction company indirectly contributes to the reduction of emissions and can be associated with credit generation initiatives.
- Investment in green projects: construction companies can invest directly in reforestation, energy efficiency or clean energy projects, which generate carbon credits and bring reputational benefits.
- Environmental certifications: programs such as LEED or AQUA-HQE value carbon offset actions and help position projects as sustainable, increasing their market value and attractiveness.
Practical and strategic benefits of carbon credits in civil construction
The adoption of an emissions compensation policy can generate positive impacts on several fronts:
- Competitive advantage in tenders and partnerships
- Valuation of the brand and of the projects
- Easy access to sustainable finance and green bonds
- Compliance with ESG goals, increasingly charged by investors and stakeholders
- Strengthening the image with the consumer public, increasingly aware of the environmental impact of companies
Lavrasul's role in this sustainable journey
Lavrasul believes that building responsibly is a commitment of the entire production chain. For this reason, We take care of the entire Madeira journey, from forests planted with responsible management to the delivery of high-quality doors.
We were pioneers in the abandonment of native species, and today we invest in sustainable solutions that contribute to the reduction of emissions, generation of carbon credits and valuation of our clients' works. By choosing suppliers like Lavrasul, construction companies go hand in hand with innovation, respect for the environment and the future of the sector.
The transition to greener construction has begun - and the carbon credits in civil construction they are powerful tools for those who want to lead this movement. With strategic planning and partnerships, construction companies can transform environmental commitments into concrete business results.
Do you want to know how Lavrasul can help your construction company build more sustainably?
Talk to one of our experts and discover how to integrate responsible solutions into your next project.