Construction accounts for 40% of global emissions. Strategies such as using sustainable materials, optimised processes and green certifications reduce emissions, waste and costs while delivering long-term environmental, economic and social benefits.

Northumbria University is using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve construction waste management and sustainability, promoting recycling and circular economy practices.

A recent McKinsey report, in collaboration with the World Economic Forum, highlights how retrofitting buildings with available technologies can reduce emissions and help achieve net-zero goals in a cost-effective manner, addressing the built environment’s significant contribution to global CO2 emissions.

The EU Affordable Housing Initiative supports 35 districts to become inclusive, energy-efficient, and affordable, tackling Europe’s housing crisis while promoting social equity and climate neutrality by 2050.

The Renocally project has successfully implemented 20 building renovation passports (BRPs) in public buildings across Romania and Bulgaria and pilot-tested two BRPs in Slovakia. Alongside municipalities, energy experts, and financial specialists, it developed financial strategies for 10 municipalities, providing concrete action plans for long-term building decarbonisation.

A new study emphasises the need for industrialised energy renovations in EU buildings, using Key Performance Indicators to assess cost, sustainability, and user satisfaction, with a focus on achieving nearly zero-energy buildings.