As development increases in Africa and Asia, and the adoption of air conditioning grows around the globe, pressure on the building sector to continue to boost energy efficiency may grow.
While the building sector has made progress in recent years on energy efficiency, trends point to increased energy demand and carbon emissions, according to a recent UN report. “Dramatic action will be needed by governments, cities, and business if the global buildings and construction sector is to cut its carbon footprint in line with international agreements,” the report says. Since 2010, the energy used by cooling systems has increased by 25%, and with increased development in hot climates along with rising temperatures as the Earth warms, that growth will likely continue.
Buildings account for about 40% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions and 36% of all energy consumption. In recent years, adoption of new techniques, products, and technologies, including heat pumps, better windows and insulation, energy-efficient appliances, renewable energy, and greener design, have led to stable emissions in the building sector.
But the greening of the construction industry needs to accelerate in order to meet climate goals, the report says.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Sep 21, 2017
After construction crane collapses during Irma, regulations questioned
Cranes rated for 140 mph winds didn’t hold up to 100 mph gusts.
Codes and Standards | Sep 20, 2017
Energy efficiency measures pay off in some not-so-obvious ways
Access to better financing, tax incentives, rent premiums, among the benefits to greener buildings.
Codes and Standards | Sep 19, 2017
Benchmarking regulations prompt jump in green certified properties
2016 saw a slight rise in total certified U.S. green office space.
Codes and Standards | Sep 18, 2017
Changes likely to come to federal wetlands regulations
However, states may step up regulations as feds relax them.
Codes and Standards | Sep 14, 2017
Gentrification means a new mindset for city planners
Rising rents elicit reexamination of zoning principles.
Codes and Standards | Sep 13, 2017
OSHA issues extension for compliance with crane operator certification requirements
Comments on proposed rule sought through Sept. 29.
Codes and Standards | Sep 12, 2017
Washington, D.C. is first LEED Platinum city in the world
All city government buildings are powered by renewables.
Codes and Standards | Sep 11, 2017
Natural solutions would be most effective flood resilience policies for Houston
New green infrastructure should be part of rebuild.
Codes and Standards | Sep 8, 2017
Los Angeles luxury high-rise is first U.S. apartment building to achieve WELL Multifamily certification
Hollywood Proper Residences have verified indoor air and water quality features.
Codes and Standards | Sep 7, 2017
More than half of Houston properties at high or moderate risk of flooding are not in FEMA flood zone
Properties outside of these zones are not required to carry flood insurance.