Historically, building practices were inherently sustainable, utilizing local materials and methods suited to the climate. For instance, thick-walled adobe homes in the Middle East and Southwestern United States kept interiors cool in the heat, while steep-roofed timber houses in northern Europe shed snow to prevent structural damage.

The energy crises of the 1970s were a pivotal moment for sustainable architecture. As oil prices soared and awareness of human environmental impact grew, architects and builders began to reconsider modern building practices. This era saw the rise of the "green" architecture movement, which emphasized energy efficiency, resource conservation, and minimizing environmental impact. The development of technologies like solar panels and green roofs, along with passive design strategies such as strategic placement of windows and insulation, became more prevalent.

By the late 20th and early 21st centuries, sustainable architecture was further solidified by the establishment of formal standards and certifications like LEED, BREEAM, and the WELL Building Standard. These systems provided frameworks that incentivized builders, architects, and developers to pursue sustainability in a structured and certified manner.

As we look towards the future, sustainable architecture continues to evolve with a stronger emphasis on net-zero or positive energy buildings, biophilic design, and the circular economy. The focus is shifting from merely reducing the negative impacts to creating buildings that can actively benefit the environment and communities.