Buildings

Buildings are at the heart of city life, and a major source of climate impact. The buildings and construction sector accounts for over one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions come not just from the energy used to heat, cool, and power our homes and offices, but also from building sites and the production of materials like cement and steel. 

But there are solutions. Proactive city planning, smarter building codes, renewable energy, and sustainable materials can dramatically reduce emissions while improving quality of life. 

Repurposing existing buildings saves resources and preserves cultural identity. New models, such as positive-energy districts that generate more power than they consume, show what’s possible. The choices cities make today, will shape their environmental impact for centuries. 

Do you need inspiration for your city’s buildings policies?
Here are some of our top picks.