Construction in Chile Is Changing: Toward a More Sustainable and Efficient Model
Date: February 23, 2026
The construction industry in Chile is undergoing a profound transformation. What was once a traditionally resource-intensive sector with significant environmental impacts is now moving toward more sustainable, efficient, and environmentally responsible construction. This change is no accident: it is a response to public policies, collaborative initiatives, and new environmental requirements that are reshaping the sector's priorities.
The shift towards sustainable construction
Historically, construction has been one of the sectors with the highest consumption of materials and energy and the highest generation of waste. This has led to the need to rethink how we build and how we plan our urban environments in order to minimize negative impacts and maximize social and environmental benefits.
In Chile, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development (MINVU), together with public and private actors, has promoted initiatives that integrate environmental and sustainability criteria into construction projects, marking a change in the way buildings are constructed.
National Sustainable Construction Strategy: a milestone for the sector
One of the pillars of this transformation is the National Sustainable Construction Strategy (ENCS), which promotes the integration of sustainability criteria into all stages of the construction process.
This approach promotes:
Energy efficiency and responsible use of resources (water, materials, and energy).
Sustainable management of construction and demolition waste.
Conditions that promote healthy and comfortable buildings for people.
Integration of environmental criteria into the design, construction, and operation of projects.
What does this change mean for the industry?
Companies and professionals must adapt to new environmental standards and regulations, which translates into better processes and products. Innovation in materials, design techniques, and construction management is encouraged.
This move positions Chile as a country that not only responds to global environmental needs, but also leads a structural transformation in the way we build.
This change not only improves the quality of construction projects, but also contributes to healthier, greener, and more resilient cities—a real leap forward toward construction that considers both people and the planet.
Manufacturers