Publication

Net zero buildings: where do we stand?

This report represents an important collaboration toward better understanding how we can reduce all emissions from the construction and use of buildings to achieve net zero.

Last updated: October 2022

The building industry is responsible for 38%, or around 14 gigatons, of all energy-related GHG emissions each year. Global decarbonization trajectories indicate that the industry needs to reduce these emissions by 50% by 2030 if it is to reach net zero by mid-century and achieve the climate goals of the Paris Agreement.

This new report from the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), supported by Arup, calls on the built environment industry to adopt a whole life-cycle approach to assessing the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from buildings

It provides a clear overview of all the carbon emissions in the building system over a full life cycle, and it enables reflections and opportunities for dialogue between all stakeholders.