The study is oriented toward a systematic interpretation of the institutional and managerial determinants that set the pace and shape the diffusion trajectories of energy-efficient and low-carbon solutions in the construction industries of transition economies. The empirical focus is built on a comparative review of regional cases in Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan), Southeast Asia (Vietnam), and the Western Balkans. The methodological foundation relies on integrating relevant statistical datasets produced by international organizations with an analysis of updated regulatory decisions and packages of lawmaking initiatives that define the framework conditions for “green” modernization in construction.

Within the discussion of public policy instruments, targeted incentive mechanisms are emphasized, including Kazakhstan’s model of administrative facilitation in the form of a “Green Corridor” and the formation of a new environmental taxonomy in Vietnam as an institution for classifying sustainable activities. In addition, the role of international financial institutions is examined as a catalyst for green finance markets and credit products that lower entry barriers for development projects with a reduced carbon footprint.  At the same time, the analysis identifies a pronounced mismatch between declarative policy intentions and the operational effectiveness of implemented measures: the observed imbalance is associated with institutional gaps, a shortage of qualified personnel in energy auditing and sustainable design, and price and regulatory distortions in energy markets that prevent the proper monetization of energy efficiency.

As an applied outcome, managerial approaches are formulated for developer organizations, aimed—practically speaking, aimed again—at embedding ESG logic into corporate governance contours and shifting from linear resource-consumption models toward circular-economy practices across the design, construction, and operational stages of facilities. The set of conclusions shows that the low-carbon transformation of the construction sector in transition economies is not reducible to transferring technologies and equipment; a decisive condition is a deep restructuring of the architecture of state regulation and corporate governance systems, ensuring reproducible incentives, measurable effects, and institutional enforceability of adopted decisions. The material is of value to sustainable development specialists, representatives of regulatory bodies, and the research community working at the intersection of climate policy and construction economics.

energy efficiency, low-carbon construction, transition economies, institutional analysis, ESG transformation, green finance, decarbonization, Central Asia, Vietnam, Western Balkans

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