Key strategies for achieving net-zero carbon buildings and promoting carbon credits in construction markets: A case of an emerging economy

Abstract

While achieving net-zero carbon buildings (NZCBs) offers significant environmental and economic benefits, particularly in developing economies, research on effective strategies and their interplay with carbon credit systems remains limited. This knowledge gap hinders the widespread adoption of sustainable construction practices and the full potential of carbon markets for incentivizing change. This study aims to bridge this gap by investigating and assessing 15 key strategies for achieving NZCBs and promoting carbon credit implementation. Data from 109 construction professionals in Vietnam was analyzed using several statistical techniques. The results of one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post-hoc analysis showed no significant differences in the key strategies for promoting carbon credits among key stakeholders (policymakers, contractors, suppliers, and architects/designers). However, distinct variations were identified in the strategies for achieving NZCBs. Furthermore, the findings revealed that the top-priority strategies for NZCBs included: (1) raising awareness, (2) developing project-specific emission reduction roadmaps, and (3) increasing renewable energy utilization. For promoting carbon credits, the prioritized strategies involved: (1) tax reduction, (2) integrating emission reduction criteria into tender documents, and (3) awarding technical points to contractors with emission reduction solutions. Theoretically, this study breaks new ground by simultaneously examining key strategies for achieving NZCBs and carbon credits implementation within the specific context of an emerging economy. Practically, this paper offers valuable recommendations for Vietnamese policymakers and industry leaders, enabling them to navigate a roadmap for a greener and more sustainable built environment, not just in Vietnam but also in other emerging economies facing similar challenges.