Buildings have a significant environmental impact in the EU, accounting for over 30% of its environmental footprint, 42% of its energy use, and 35% of its greenhouse gas emissions. 

The EU has established a comprehensive legislative framework for buildings, including the revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive and the Renovation Wave initiative aimed at decarbonising the building stock by 2050 and improving energy efficiency, but lacks a holistic policy approach to address environmental and climate issues throughout their entire life cycle.

This report, 'Addressing the environmental and climate footprint of buildings' from the European Environment Agency (EEA), advocates for a sustainable building system, minimising resource depletion and pollution while enhancing economic and social responsibility. 

Key stages—construction, operation, renovation, and demolition—present various environmental challenges. The report suggests principles for sustainable building, including prioritising renovation, promoting circular construction, using low-impact materials, supporting the green energy transition aligned with relevant legislation such as the EPBD, and enhancing climate resilience. 

The document also emphasises that a sustainable building system must ensure affordable and accessible housing for all, achievable through participatory decision-making to strengthen local communities and subsidies for renovations and upgrades to maintain affordability.

_{The views expressed reflect those of the EEA and do not represent the official stance of the Commission or the EU.}