Sustainability isn’t a trend — It’s becoming the standard for outdoor projects

OCS Influencer John Kenney says that, as more clients prioritize responsible design, the contractors who can confidently guide those conversations become more trusted.

In the outdoor living and pool space, sustainability has moved well beyond a talking point. It’s showing up in how projects are designed, how systems are installed and how clients make decisions. Homeowners and property owners are asking different questions today. They’re not just focused on how something looks when it’s finished — they want to know how it performs over time, what it costs to maintain and how it impacts water and energy use. 

From where I sit, this shift isn’t surprising. Every part of construction is moving in this direction. The contractors who recognize it early and adjust their approach are the ones who will stay ahead. 

One of the biggest areas where this is playing out is water management. Pools, irrigation systems and landscaping all rely heavily on water, and in many regions, that resource is becoming more closely monitored and more expensive. Contractors who understand how to design systems that use water efficiently are already setting themselves apart. 

That starts with smarter irrigation. Traditional systems often overwater because they’re not calibrated to actual conditions. Today’s systems can be designed with zoning, timing and controls that match the specific needs of the landscape. Drip irrigation, moisture sensors and programmable controllers all help reduce waste while keeping outdoor spaces healthy. 

Pools are seeing similar changes. Variable-speed pumps, automated controls and improved filtration systems allow pool owners to manage water circulation and energy use more efficiently than ever before. These aren’t just upgrades for the sake of technology — they directly impact operating costs. When contractors can explain that clearly, it shifts the conversation from price to long-term value. 

Material selection is another area where sustainability is becoming more visible. Clients are paying closer attention to what goes into their projects. That includes everything from decking materials and hardscape products to finishes and structural components. Durability plays a big role here. Materials that last longer and require less maintenance reduce the need for future replacement, which is one of the simplest ways to improve sustainability. 

Energy efficiency is also becoming part of the design conversation. Outdoor lighting, heating systems and water features all contribute to overall energy use. LED lighting, efficient heaters and smart automation systems allow these features to perform well without excessive consumption. Again, this isn’t about adding complexity — it’s about making better choices upfront that pay off over time. 

But one of the most important shifts isn’t in the products or systems themselves. It’s in how contractors communicate with clients. Sustainability doesn’t need to be presented as a separate feature. It should be part of the overall project discussion. When you talk about durability, you’re talking about sustainability. When you talk about lower operating costs, you’re talking about sustainability. When you design a system that performs efficiently year after year, that’s sustainability in practice. 

The contractors who do this well don’t overcomplicate it. They don’t rely on buzzwords or try to sell sustainability as an add-on. They incorporate it into their design and build processes. They explain the long-term impact in practical terms — water savings, energy efficiency, reduced maintenance — and let the client see the value. 

There’s also a business advantage to this approach. As more clients prioritize responsible design, contractors who can confidently guide those conversations become more trusted. They’re not just installing a project — they’re helping clients make informed decisions about how their outdoor space will function for years to come. 

Like any shift in the industry, this one comes with a learning curve. New systems, new materials and new expectations require contractors to stay informed and adapt. But the fundamentals remain the same. Good planning, quality installation and clear communication still drive successful projects. 

Sustainability is simply adding another layer to that process. 

And the contractors who embrace it as part of their everyday work — not as a separate initiative — are the ones who will continue to grow as the market evolves.