From Estimator to Carbon Manager: Navigating Quantity Surveyors’ Practice in Decarbonizing the Construction Industry
Abstract
The construction industry is a major contributor to global carbon emissions, making the implementation of decarbonization strategies critical for a sustainable future. Within this sector, Quantity Surveyors (QS) are uniquely positioned to influence sustainability outcomes through their traditional expertise in cost management, procurement, and contract administration. However, despite the growing emphasis on environmental sustainability, a significant gap persists between high-level policies and the daily operational practices of the surveying profession, particularly in regional corridors such as Sarawak. This study aims to examine the current practices, strategies, and challenges faced by quantity surveyors in Kuching, Sarawak, in facilitating a decarbonized construction industry. Adopting a quantitative research approach, data was collected via a questionnaire survey involving 89 professional quantity surveyors. The findings indicate that while industry practitioners recognize the importance of mitigating climate change and reducing carbon emissions, their operational effectiveness is constrained by structural barriers, specifically limited training, low awareness, and a lack of regulatory frameworks. The study reveals that quantity surveyors currently leverage pre-contract mechanisms such as e-tendering and life cycle costing (LCC) alongside post-contract measures like monitoring contractor compliance and reporting carbon footprints to drive decarbonization. To bridge the gap between sustainability policies and operational practice, the study recommends targeted government interventions, continuous professional upskilling, and the integration of digital tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM). By adopting these strategies, quantity surveyors can strengthen their role in mitigating the environmental impact of construction activities and effectively lead the industry toward a net-zero future.