On 16 December 2025, the European Commission published a delegated regulation (C/2025/8723) introducing a common approach to calculate the Global Warming Potential (GWP) over the life cycle of buildings. This measure, inspired by the recast Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), aims for all Member States to adopt a comparable methodology to estimate greenhouse gas emissions linked to the construction, use, maintenance, and demolition of buildings. Until now, energy performance certificates focused mainly on operational aspects; the new approach extends the scope to emissions embedded in materials and construction processes, as well as those related to waste management and recycling.

From January 2028, all new buildings over 1,000 m² will be required to include this calculation in their energy certificate. By 2030, the obligation will apply to all new constructions. This framework not only seeks to harmonise criteria but also aims to encourage the use of low-carbon materials such as 'clean' steel and cement, carbon capture and storage techniques, timber construction, and reuse and recycling processes.

The regulation allows some flexibility: countries may use national default values and data provided by manufacturers under regulations such as the Construction Products Regulation and legislation on ecodesign and energy labelling. Following its publication, the text will be examined for two months by the Council and the European Parliament, a period that may be extended by another two months if requested.

_{Picture: ©AdobeStock/GrandWarszawski}