Carbon Dioxide Reduction Strategies in the Construction Sector: Focus on Green Remodeling and Eco-Friendly Building Materials

This study analyzes green remodeling and reconstruction in terms of carbon emissions, economic feasibility, and energy savings. It also evaluates the carbon reduction potential of sustainable building materials. Furthermore, global policy trends are comprehensively reviewed through literature-based quantitative analysis and comparative case studies. Key findings are as follows: 1) Green remodeling achieves up to a 46% reduction in carbon emissions compared to reconstruction, with 20–50% higher cost effectiveness, 2) Low-carbon concrete reduces production-phase carbon emissions by up to 40%, 3) Timber structures can sequester approximately 1.8 tons of carbon per ton of material over the long term, 4) The use of sustainable building materials is pivotal for overall carbon mitigation in buildings, 5) Several European countries employ certification schemes, financial incentives, and mandatory regulations to promote green construction, 6) With sufficient measures to alleviate initial investment costs, align stakeholder interests, and provide tax and financial support, the green remodeling market in South Korea has strong growth potential. Based on this analysis, the study offers four strategic recommendations to inform sustainable development strategies in the building sector and support the design of a national, long-term carbon-neutral roadmap: 1) Systematic expansion of green remodeling initiatives, 2) Provision of fiscal incentives and strengthened financial support, 3) Development and large-scale demonstration of sustainable new materials, 4) Promotion of green construction through integrated certification systems and regulatory frameworks. These strategies collectively contribute to maximizing carbon reduction across the construction industry.