Sustainability in the Italian Construction Sector: The Role of Voluntary Certifications and Environmental Regulations

The construction industry, responsible for over one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions, is central in transitioning towards more sustainable models. Sustainability in this sector is a goal and a crucial component for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. This study explores the Italian context, analysing the role of voluntary certification protocols—such as LEED, WELL, and ENVISION—and current regulations, including the Minimum Environmental Criteria (CAM) and the Do No Significant Harm (DNSH) principle. The research provides an overview of the national regulatory framework and the growing interest in voluntary certification tools, highlighting how they support adopting innovative practices and promoting functional and safe buildings that respect environmental and social sustainability values. Particular attention is given to the ENVISION protocol and CAM, which are considered strategic tools for guiding the sector’s transition towards a more responsible and conscious approach, thanks to their ability to integrate principles of circularity, energy efficiency, and impact reduction throughout the entire building life cycle. The study explores how the combined use of these tools can enhance sustainability in road infrastructure design by analysing points of convergence and potential areas of integration. Furthermore, it proposes an assessment of the alignment of specific criteria from the European Taxonomy with the DNSH principle, offering practical insights for designers engaged in developing low-impact infrastructure. The research highlights how end-user demand, combined with an evolving regulatory framework and incentive policies, represents a powerful driver of change for the construction sector. The interaction of these factors is reshaping the industry’s future, steering it towards more sustainable solutions.