This study assessed the economic impact of green buildings in the South African construction industry, focusing on the costs and financial benefits associated with sustainable construction practices. The research is supported by analyzing case studies and current literature using a systematic review approach. Papers were sourced from Research Gate, Academia, Google Scholar and Science Direct databases, prioritizing those published in the last decade (2015 to 2024). A sample of 42 papers was deemed adequate for deriving general insights into the economic effects of green buildings. Findings demonstrate that green buildings deliver substantial economic advantages over time, encouraging widespread adoption across the sector despite higher upfront costs.  More findings indicated that there are challenges and opportunities in implementing green building initiatives; these include higher initial construction costs, regulatory barriers, and limited market awareness. At the same time, opportunities lie in long-term operational savings, enhanced asset values, and alignment with global sustainability goals. The study informs policymakers, developers, and construction professionals on the long-term economic benefits of green buildings. It supports the adoption of financial incentives, green financing, and capacity-building initiatives to reduce upfront costs, improve investment confidence, and enhance sustainable construction practices within the South African construction industry.

Keywords

Green buildings, sustainable construction, economic impact, South African construction, energy efficiency.