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Sustainability

Wellbeing

The built environment presents a myriad of wellbeing challenges that impact both our workforce and our communities on a daily basis.

Building happy, healthy places to live and work – makes good business sense

To talk about a healthy, climate-resilient, inclusive future, it’s important to look at the built environment value chain. This includes materials and how they are manufactured; design principles and construction methods; the experience of those working in manufacturing and construction, as well as that of the end-users; and the impact of the built environment on our communities and eco-systems.

The costs to society – in economic, environmental and social terms – of failing to address health and wellbeing, are enormous.

Australian builder on a construction site during sunset.

Suicide is significantly more prevalent among construction workers in Australia compared to the general population.

According to research from MATES in Construction and other mental health organisations, male construction workers are around twice as likely to die by suicide than other employed men in Australia. In fact, approximately 190 construction workers die by suicide each year—equating to nearly one every two days. Young workers in the industry are particularly at risk, with suicide rates up to two times higher than those of their peers in other occupations. These statistics highlight the urgent need for targeted mental health support and cultural change within the industry.

Wellbeing - Sustainability Short

These days there’s a lot of talk about wellbeing and how it’s important. But what is wellbeing and why should you be bothered about it?

Wellbeing: Sustainability Short

WorldGBC's Health & Wellbeing Framework

The WGBC Framework is a high-level educational resource, structured across six core principles for health and wellbeing in the built environment. The principles are conceptual, allowing them to be universally applicable for an international audience and diverse range of stakeholders. It can be used by actors across the value chain, from designers to occupiers, construction firms to policymakers.

Download the framework

Key wellbeing resources

Here are a selection of featured wellbeing resources. To view more, please visit our full resource library.

Employees using phones, tablets, laptops.
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