Can Projects Save the Planet? The Green Project Management Report

The State of Green Project Management 2024: Insights & Trends

Sustainability is becoming a cornerstone of project management. The latest findings from the Green Project Management (GPM) Research Initiative highlight the growing need to integrate environmental considerations into project strategies.

The data is clear: climate change is already affecting project outcomes. In 2024, 53% of projects reported disruptions due to extreme weather, up from 38% in 2021. The urgency to adopt sustainable, resilient practices has never been greater.

Sustainability as a Competitive Advantage

Sustainability isn’t just ethical—it’s strategic. A remarkable 73% of project professionals rank sustainability as a top priority, recognising its role in long-term success. Yet, 79% believe the industry isn’t doing enough to combat climate change. This gap between awareness and action underscores the need for stronger implementation.

While challenges like resource scarcity and regulatory changes pose risks, they also create opportunities for innovation. Sustainable project management can enhance risk management, improve efficiency, and position organisations for long-term resilience.

Key Takeaways

The report outlines critical steps for the profession:

  • Act Now – Climate change is accelerating. The industry must integrate sustainability into every aspect of project management.
  • Close the Action Gap – While sustainability awareness is high, implementation lags. Concrete strategies are needed.
  • Develop Sustainable Practices – 95% of organisations are still in the early or developing stages of sustainability adoption. Progress must accelerate.
  • Leverage Competitive Advantage – Companies prioritising sustainability attract talent, secure funding, and build resilience.

What’s Next?

The report challenges the industry with key questions:

  • How can we accelerate regenerative project management?
  • What innovative approaches can tackle climate-related project risks?
  • How do we measure the success of sustainability initiatives?
  • How can organisations assess supplier sustainability practices?
  • What role should the P5 standard play in sustainable project management?

Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s essential. Project professionals must lead the charge toward a greener future.

For the full report, download it here.

About Green Project Management

Founded in 2009, GPM is a global leader in sustainable project management. As a social enterprise, GPM helps organisations build resilience, improve efficiency, and protect natural resources. Their mission is to embed sustainability at the core of project management.

Join Dr. Joel Carboni, GPM’s founder, at an upcoming global webinar hosted by the Association of Project Management in partnership with Project Management Global Ltd. Industry leaders will discuss project management growth in the Middle East and Ireland as they pursue ambitious sustainability goals.

A limited number of Free Tickets are available for this live, virtual event and are available here.

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