Building a Greener Future: Contractors Share Their Commitment to Sustainability

In the face of mounting climate challenges, the construction industry is evolving—and contractors are stepping up. One standout initiative is the Contractor’s Commitment (CC), a sustainability framework created by contractors, for contractors. Developed through the Sustainable Construction Leaders (SCL) peer network, the CC helps firms advance sustainable practices across five core categories: carbon, water management, waste management, jobsite wellness, and materials.

Firms that sign on to the commitment voluntarily report on metrics in each category annually and are rated on a tiered scale: reported, good, better, or best. With reporting required from a minimum of five projects and representing at least 30% of annual company revenue, the CC offers both rigor and flexibility, aligning closely with the evolving demands of the industry and the planet.

To better understand its impact, we spoke with three pioneering signatory firms and NAIOPWA member companies: Absher Construction, GLY, and Sellen Construction Company.

How It All Began

Each company’s journey with the Contractor’s Commitment began differently, but all shared a desire to improve sustainability through collaboration.

• Absher signed the commitment in 2022, following active participation in the BuildingGreen Peer Networks. “We saw the CC as a way to create a clearer roadmap for sustainability,” they shared. It led to system-wide improvements.
• GLY had a front-row seat to the commitment’s creation: “We were part of the original group of contractors who created and signed onto the CC and have been reporting ever since.”
• Sellen was among the original nine signatory firms to report performance in 2021 and has continued to play a leadership role in developing the latest version of the Commitment while serving on the SCL steering committee.

What the Data Reveals

For these contractors, participation in the CC has revealed powerful insights.

• Absher began tracking CO₂ emissions and discovered significant opportunities for improvement: “By monitoring diesel consumption, we saw the value in hybrid generators and renewable diesel. We could identify which jobsites emitted more and why.”
• GLY found the biggest eye-opener was fuel consumption across jobsites and the company. The data prompted them to investigate cleaner options.
• Sellen used the commitment as a springboard to collect greenhouse gas (GHG) data beyond project requirements, enabling them to measure performance across a broader set of key indicators.

Why It Matters for Owners and Developers

All three firms agree: working with a CC signatory brings value beyond construction.

• Absher emphasized that “signatories voluntarily commit to integrating sustainable practices. They’re often ahead of policy, and their data collection helps clients meet climate goals without added costs.”
• GLY added that signatories care deeply about what goes into a building: materials, VOC content, reusability, local sourcing, etc.; offering extra value as an included service.
• Sellen echoed that sentiment: “You’ll find CC signatories have teams eager to make a difference. It’s more than compliance; it’s a shift in mindset.”

Costs and ROI

Despite perceptions, the financial investment to join the CC is modest.

• Absher highlighted the value of resource-sharing within the CC network. They’re integrating tracking systems into existing software, like Power BI.
• GLY described the cost as minimal compared to the benefits, noting that firms generally spend a few hours each month on documentation.
• Sellen stressed that “the peer collaboration and validation are worth the $2,500 annual fee.” They also invest in a GHG inventory platform that complements the CC and aligns with global reporting frameworks.

Impactful Changes

Participation in the CC has sparked tangible change.

• Absher now embeds sustainability into every project phase—from onboarding staff to subcontractor prequalification. “We continue to improve to make sustainability part of our culture. It drives accountability and innovation.”
• GLY implemented an anti-idling policy that was met with enthusiasm. “Not one person complained. Trade partners even asked to adopt it. It's a win for air quality, fuel savings, and the planet.”
• Sellen revamped waste and carbon tracking. “We now conduct salvage assessments as standard practice and increased source separation. CC also helped us normalize emissions reporting, which led to joining the Climate Pledge.”

Tangible Benefits

Beyond environmental impact, the commitment has brought internal and external benefits.

• Absher noted that joining the CC and the Peer Network has brought collaboration and consistency to better serve clients while also supporting subcontractors. "For over 80 years, we've been building the foundations of tomorrow, with an unwavering commitment to progress and lasting impact."
• GLY credits the CC with helping them clarify their impact reduction strategies. “It gives us a solid framework but also flexibility to focus on regional challenges like water and carbon in the Pacific Northwest. As a true PNW Builder, any impact to our eco-system affects us for generations.”
• Sellen noted that their CC status is a value-add for clients. “We do as standard practice what others charge extra for. It aligns with client values and enhances trust. … We’re not just builders — we’re stewards of the environment and advocates for a more sustainable industry.”

Looking Ahead

The CC isn’t just a reporting tool — it’s a catalyst for transformation. General contractors are encouraged to join Absher, GLY, and Sellen in signing the CC. Additionally, building owners, developers, and public entities can support by asking your general contractors to be signatories in your RFPs. To learn more about the CC and how your company can support visit the Contractor's Commitment website here.

This blog was written by Ella Sandquist (IA Interior Architects) and Laura Soma (GLY) as part of the Sustainable Development Committee’s ongoing Sustainability Mindset series. For more information on how to join or sponsor the Sustainable Development Committee, email [email protected].

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