Addressing the environmental and climate footprint of buildings

The document titled "Addressing the environmental and climate footprint of buildings" is a report published by the European Environment Agency (EEA) in September 2024. The EEA is a key agency of the European Union that provides independent information on the environment to support sustainable development and help achieve significant reductions in environmental impacts. The report is authored by various contributors, emphasizing the urgent need to address the environmental impacts of the building sector, which plays a crucial role in the EU's sustainability agenda.

Buildings are responsible for more than 30% of the EU's environmental footprint, making them the sector with the highest environmental impact within the European Union. The building system accounts for 42% of the EU's annual energy consumption and 35% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Additionally, around one-third of all materials consumed annually in the EU are linked to buildings. As the population ages and urbanization increases, there is a growing demand for buildings that support environmental and climate solutions.

The EU has established a comprehensive legislative framework aimed at improving the sustainability of buildings, including the revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive and the Renovation Wave initiative, which seeks to double the annual renovation rate by 2030. However, a unified policy strategy that integrates environmental and climate issues across all stages of a building's life cycle is still lacking.

Renovation is highlighted as a priority for achieving a sustainable building system by 2050. It can significantly reduce energy consumption, improve indoor air quality, and provide economic benefits by creating local jobs. However, the report notes that substantial investments and supportive policies are needed to overcome barriers to renovation, such as high upfront costs and the inconvenience of extensive renovations for homeowners.

The report advocates for a circular economy approach in the building sector, emphasizing the need to construct long-lasting, adaptable buildings designed for disassembly. This approach aims to maximize the reuse of construction products, minimize waste generation, and reduce raw material consumption. Strategies such as pre-demolition audits and the implementation of circular business models are recommended to support this transition.

Energy consumption during the use phase of buildings remains a critical issue, representing the greatest source of GHG emissions. The report suggests that integrating renewable energy sources and promoting energy-efficient technologies, such as heat pumps and smart building systems, are essential for reducing operational emissions.

Promoting fair and inclusive communities is also emphasized, with recommendations for participatory decision-making processes that involve local residents in the planning and renovation of housing projects. This approach aims to ensure that the benefits of sustainable housing are equitably distributed, addressing issues of energy poverty and housing affordability.

Looking towards 2050, the report envisions a buildings system that prioritizes renovation, utilizes low-carbon materials, and incorporates nature-based solutions to enhance biodiversity. Key principles for achieving this future include minimizing energy consumption, fostering community engagement, and ensuring that buildings contribute positively to the environment and society.

In summary, this report serves as a comprehensive framework for addressing the significant environmental and climate impacts of buildings across Europe, highlighting the need for integrated policies, innovative practices, and community involvement in the transition to sustainable housing.