Even before projects reach the shovel-ready phase, a “business as usual” mindset can stunt sustainability goals, says John Delaney, sustainability director at Beyer Blinder Belle Architects & Planners.

Green building revenue jumped in 2022 with more projects seeking third-party sustainability certifications. Federal spending and new carbon-cutting standards helped advance climate-friendly design, but Top 100 Green Design and Contracting firms say greater isn’t always greener when it comes to environmental impact.

The CHIPS and Science Act aims to bolster U.S. leadership in innovation and technology. For some Top 100 sustainable design firms like Flad Architects, it’s an opportunity to expand into science and technology markets.

With decarbonization incentives baked into recent federal spending packages, many owners across industrial and infrastructure sectors now have the wherewithal to think green.

Reaching sustainable standards can sometimes be counterintuitive to the traditional design and construction process.