The new technologies applicable to constructive methods represent an important opportunity not only for the construction of new buildings but also for renovation of the existing housing stock. This opportunity is one of the elements the European Commission has considered in its new strategy for the European construction industry, a sector which accounts for more than 10% of employment in the EU.

Among the measures included in the new Commission's strategy is the creation of favourable conditions for investment, especially for the renewal and maintenance of buildings. To support these conditions the Commission proposes actions such as the mobilization of the package of up to €120 billion available through loans of the European Investment Bank (EIB) as agreed in the Pact for Growth and Employment adopted in June 2012. The strategy also provides for measures giving greater impetus to innovation in the construction sector and improving worker's qualifications by promoting mobility.

The Commission's proposal highlights the need to improve resource efficiency in the EU construction sector by easing mutual recognition of sustainable building systems and providing construction companies with standard design codes of practice that will facilitate their work in other Member States.

The Commission's strategy on construction also foresees measures to improve the global position of European construction companies to promote good performance and sustainable standards in third countries. European enterprises are faced not only to difficulties arising in the single market area but also to certain issues in global markets derived from the existence of less strict social and environmental requirements. In addition, European enterprises must compete in global markets with operators from certain third countries which benefit from state protection measures, such as China.

A high-level forum composed of Member States and industry representatives will conduct a review of the implementation of the strategy, after which the Commission will consider adjustments and new initiatives. Effects at national level as well as ways to benefit from certain synergies will also be the object of the review.

All these measures are aimed at restoring an industry which generates nearly 10% of GDP in the European Union and has been seriously affected by the economic and financial crisis. It is estimated that after the burst of the housing bubble, construction of buildings and infrastructure has been reduced by 17% in all Member States.