In order to keep the global temperature from rising above pre-industrial levels by 2°C, all the world’s buildings must reach net zero carbon by 2050, according to a report by the World Green Building Council.
Keeping the global temperature increase below 2°C would avert the most serious consequences of climate change, scientists believe, and that goal is in line with the Paris Agreement on climate change. All new buildings must operate at net zero carbon by 2030, and all existing buildings must be renovated to operate at net zero carbon by 2050, the report says.
The building and construction sector is responsible for around 30% of global energy consumption and associated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The WGBC estimates that only 500 net zero commercial buildings and several thousand net zero residential units currently exist in the world.
Thus, there is a need for several billion net zero buildings worldwide, the report says. The report also finds that net zero buildings can create jobs, improve energy security, and lower energy costs.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jun 21, 2019
Green Globes 2019 accepted as a revised American National Standard
Advances include language on resilience, life cycle cost analysis, moisture control analysis, health, and effectiveness.
Codes and Standards | Jun 14, 2019
Reports from Intl. Code Council focus on expanding use of shipping containers as building materials
Three companies show compliance for using containers for housing.
Codes and Standards | Jun 13, 2019
Report explores potential for rope-less and multidirectional elevators in tall buildings
Technology can enable cities to be more interconnected, efficient, and accessible.
Codes and Standards | Jun 12, 2019
USGBC-LA launches Net Zero Accelerator
Goal is to enable building tech market adoption for a net positive future.
Codes and Standards | Jun 11, 2019
BREEAM USA In-Use standard to be released this fall
Will expand to include residential and multifamily for assessment and certification.
Codes and Standards | Jun 10, 2019
Intl. Code Council releases Natural Disaster Preparedness Guide
Provides tips for staying safe during and after a hurricane or severe weather.
Codes and Standards | Jun 7, 2019
Market conditions indicate slower growth in industrial real estate sector
E-commerce, market oversupply, rising interest rates to dampen hot market.
Codes and Standards | Jun 3, 2019
Haskell invests in BLOX, creator of modular-based delivery method
‘Represents important part of Haskell’s future strategy,’ says CEO.
Codes and Standards | Jun 3, 2019
Florida may eliminate certificate of need requirement for new hospitals
Bill could boost specialized facilities.
Codes and Standards | May 31, 2019
RELi 2.0 standard for sustainability, resilience being piloted
Will be open to LEED-registered or -certified projects, with introductory pricing and support.
