As sustainability becomes a defining trend across industries, the construction sector in Kansas City is embracing the shift with growing urgency. Developers, contractors, and architects are increasingly turning to eco-conscious building practices—not just to reduce environmental impact but to position their projects for long-term success.

Whether it’s new development or renovation, integrating sustainable construction into project planning can offer long-term value. From cost savings and compliance with evolving building codes to boosting appeal for environmentally conscious tenants and buyers, the benefits are wide-ranging.

JE Dunn, a leading contractor in Kansas City, has played a key role in advancing green construction practices. The company has contributed to several high-profile sustainable initiatives, including the South Loop Project and the KC Streetcar extension, both of which position Kansas City as a rising leader in sustainable urban development.

Here are three important sustainable construction considerations for your next Kansas City project—and why they’re more relevant than ever.

1. Mass Timber: A Renewable, Biophilic Solution

Mass timber is gaining attention as a carbon-sequestering alternative to traditional building materials like steel and concrete. This engineered wood product offers significant environmental and design benefits, making it a compelling choice for projects prioritizing sustainability and wellness.

Why choose mass timber?

Environmental benefits‍

Mass timber’s ability to store carbon captured during the tree’s growth phase can significantly lower a project’s carbon footprint.

Biophilic design appeal‍

The natural look and feel of timber connects occupants with nature, promoting well-being in line with the growing trend toward health-centric design.

Cost efficiency over time‍

While upfront costs may be higher, mass timber can reduce the need for secondary finishes and foundational support, especially when used in hybrid structures that pair it with steel or concrete.

JE Dunn has deployed mass timber in projects such as Atlanta’s Ponce City Market and the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, which aims for “zero energy, zero water, zero emissions, and zero waste.”

2. Low-Carbon Concrete: Lower Emissions, Same Performance

Concrete remains one of the most widely used building materials, but it’s also a major source of carbon emissions due to cement production. Low-carbon concrete provides a solution that balances environmental responsibility with structural integrity.

Why use low-carbon concrete?

Smaller environmental footprint‍

Substituting traditional cement with alternatives like fly ash or slag lowers emissions.

Supports certification‍

It aligns with standards for green building certifications like LEED or Living Building Challenge (LBC).

Future-ready‍

As building codes shift toward decarbonization, using low-carbon materials positions projects for compliance and marketability.

JE Dunn implemented low-carbon concrete at the Portland International Airport (PDX) and the Sobela Ocean Aquarium at the Kansas City Zoo. At PDX, all mixes used CarbonCure concrete, which captures CO₂ emissions from industrial waste and permanently embeds it in the concrete, reducing the environmental impact.

3. Adaptive Reuse: Reimagining What Already Exists

Instead of demolishing and rebuilding, adaptive reuse gives older structures new life—preserving architectural heritage while cutting emissions and construction waste.

Why consider adaptive reuse?

Sustainability‍

Reduces material waste and carbon emissions tied to demolition and new construction.

Cultural and economic revitalization‍

Kansas City neighborhoods like the West Bottoms and Crossroads District have seen new vibrancy as old warehouses are transformed into creative workspaces and modern housing.

Cost benefits‍

Depending on the scope, it can be less expensive than new builds, especially when factoring in rising material and labor costs.

As more Kansas City developers tap into the city's rich architectural history through adaptive reuse, they’re helping create a future that values both sustainability and identity.

Why Sustainability Matters More Than Ever

Local regulations are increasingly supporting sustainable development, making green construction not just ideal but essential. As Kansas City’s building codes evolve to reward energy efficiency and carbon reduction, developers who adopt sustainable strategies early gain a competitive edge.

Moreover, sustainability has become a major driver of tenant and buyer preferences. Environmentally responsible buildings are more attractive to younger generations who prioritize green living and workspaces, making sustainable features a powerful market differentiator.

Building a Greener Kansas City

Sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessity for building a resilient, future-ready Kansas City. By incorporating materials like mass timber, technologies such as low-carbon concrete, and strategies like adaptive reuse, developers can significantly reduce their environmental impact while boosting economic performance.

As the construction landscape shifts, those who lead on sustainability will not only build smarter but build with purpose—ensuring Kansas City remains a vibrant, forward-thinking place to live and work.

Originally reported by Kansas City Business Journal.