The latest RICS sustainability report shows a significant decline in global demand for green buildings, which has dropped from 41% to 30% at a time when pressure to decarbonise the built environment is increasing. The reduction is particularly marked in the Americas, where the index has fallen from nearly 50 in 2021 to just 11 in 2025. The main causes point to high upfront costs and a lack of clear evidence on return on investment, which has discouraged both developers and investors.

This decline coincides with a growing gap between what investors value and what occupants need. While the former continue to prioritise environmental certifications, many residents place energy efficiency at the centre of their decisions. RICS warns that certifications do not always reflect real performance, generating distrust and hindering the scalability of sustainable projects.

Exergio notes that this disconnect is slowing the market and proposes optimisation through artificial intelligence as a way to demonstrate real savings. According to the company, applying these solutions can reduce energy consumption in commercial buildings by up to 30%, providing the economic evidence investors are looking for.