Implementing a system-wide transition strategy for delivery
Intervention Point
Achieving full-scale net zero transformation of the built environment by 2050 requires an organised approach. While there are many important programmes and initiatives, such as roadmaps, demand signal coordination and corporate commitments under development, what is needed is a coordinated framework for delivery that can channel these important parallel developments into an effective system-wide transition strategy.
Current situation
Globally, the built environment value chain emits 37 percent of CO2 and there is a pressing need to decarbonise buildings, both in the operational and embodied phases.
However, the net zero transition for the built environment is not progressing at the pace we need. One central reason for this is that the built environment is not a sector, but a system made up of a number of high emission sectors that each need to decarbonise to achieve net zero goals.
Buildings are embedded in an extensive value chain, in which even low emission sectors such as engineering, architecture and finance play a crucial role in the whole life carbon emissions of the end product. This is further complicated by the often fragmented ownership of real estate.
To make much needed progress, a comprehensive co-owned and inclusive implementation plan for the built environment is required. The built environment can learn from existing “sector transition strategies” applied in some high-emission sectors, such as steel, concrete, energy or trucking, and an adaptation of such for the built environment could lead to more effective outcomes beyond the roadmaps..
How to get involved
Contribute to the WBCSD Market Transformation Levers for the Built Environment work. Email parsay@wbcsd.org.
Compaparsay@wbcsd.orgbuilt environment value chain can sign up to join the Building To Cop Coalition through the Race To Zero Campaign.
Become a #BuildingLife ambassador to support advances in the national roadmaps of the World Green Building Council.
Interested in finding out more? Click here to download the full technical briefing.
Not yet a ULI member? Click here to join.
Last updated: August 2023
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