The UK may need to improve its uptake of sustainability practices with regards to the housing market, judging by newly-released findings.

According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics) Sustainability Index, the nation is trailing behind other European countries when it comes to eco-friendly strategies in the property field.

The UK has been given a rating of 53 per cent, placing it fourth in the global rankings. It is positioned behind Canada (74 per cent), Continental Europe (65 per cent) and Australasia (64 per cent) in the table.

The organisation noted the UK has been overtaken by mainland Europe in recent times, which has placed greater emphasis on energy efficiency and environmental issues.

Martin Russell-Croucher, director of sustainability and special projects at Rics - which has over 100,000 qualified members - said: "While the UK has fallen behind Continental Europe in the sustainability index, this should not mask the fact that inroads are being made by the property industry across the country."