Sustainable building public perception

Abstract

This article aims at getting a deeper understanding of the public perception of sustainable building. Knowing participants' visions on challenges and opportunities from technological projects is considered a key element in the constructive evaluation of technology. Based on focus groups with lay citizens, we analyse the perceptions, attitudes, opinions and reactions towards energy efficiency in buildings. Data shows the existence of two main visions on sustainable building (high-tech, natural) as well as different attitudes, such as perceived personal efficacy and lack of trust in the construction industry, that seem to influence the perception of sustainable building.