A survey by the British Property Federation and law firm Taylor Wessing highlighted a high level of scepticism in the industry.

And contractors are among the biggest doubters as 10% revealed their belief in green issues is wavering as the recession bites.

Liz Peace, Chief Executive of the British Property Federation said: “With an industry that is sceptical about carbon reduction targets, closer collaboration between Government and the industry is essential if these are to be met.

“Government will need to work with all sectors to understand fragmented views and identify why certain sectors feel the targets are more achievable than others.”