Building Sector Emissions Stabilise for the First Time

The building and construction sector’s emissions remained unchanged in 2024, marking milestone since 2020. This development was reported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction. Although emissions did not rise, the sector still accounted for over a third of global emissions. The Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction 2024-2025, released on March 17, 2025, brought into light both progress and challenges in the sector’s decarbonisation efforts.

Current Emission Statistics

In 2024, the energy intensity of the construction sector decreased by nearly 10 per cent. The proportion of renewable energy in final energy demand also increased by approximately 5 per cent. Despite these positive trends, the sector remains contributor to climate change, consuming 32 per cent of global energy and contributing 34 per cent of global carbon dioxide emissions.

Government Actions and Their Impact

Government initiatives have begun to yield positive results. Inger Andersen, UNEP’s executive director, noted that while some progress has been made, greater urgency is required. She urged countries to integrate plans for rapid emission reductions in their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This is essential as nearly half of the future buildings worldwide have yet to be constructed.

Importance of Energy Codes

The report emphasised the necessity of implementing ambitious energy codes. Currently, more than 50 per cent of new buildings in emerging and developing economies lack such policies. The adoption of zero-carbon energy codes by 2028 for major carbon-emitting countries and by 2035 for others is crucial for meeting global climate objectives.

Investment Needs

The report called for a dramatic increase in investments in building energy efficiency. Current investments of $270 billion need to double to $522 billion by 2030. This increase is vital to support measures like circular construction practices, energy-efficient retrofitting, and the use of low-carbon materials.

Workforce Development

Addressing skill shortages in the construction industry is also critical. Workforce development programmes can help build the necessary expertise to implement green technologies and practices effectively.

Future Directions

UNEP, GlobalABC, and other partners are committed to assisting countries and businesses in decarbonising both new and existing buildings. The findings from this report will inform NDC commitments ahead of the 30th Conference of Parties (COP30) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Belem, Brazil.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Estimate the impact of the building sector on global emissions and waste management.
2. Critically discuss the significance of implementing energy codes in emerging economies for climate goals.
3. Analyse the role of government policies in reducing emissions in the construction sector.
4. Examine the necessity of workforce development programmes in the context of green building practices.

Answer Hints:

1. Estimate the impact of the building sector on global emissions and waste management.

1. The building sector accounts for over a third of global emissions, contributing 34% of CO2 emissions.
2. It consumes 32% of global energy, denoting its environmental footprint.
3. Construction materials like cement and steel contribute 18% to global emissions and generate substantial waste.
4. The sector is also responsible for a third of global waste, emphasizing the need for better waste management practices.
5. Decarbonisation efforts have begun to show results, but the sector remains a major climate change contributor.

2. Critically discuss the significance of implementing energy codes in emerging economies for climate goals.

1. More than 50% of new buildings in emerging economies lack energy codes, hindering emission reduction efforts.
2. Implementing ambitious energy codes is essential for controlling future emissions from buildings.
3. Zero-carbon energy codes by 2028 for major emitters and 2035 for others are crucial for global climate targets.
4. Energy codes can promote energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy in the construction sector.
5. Without effective energy policies, the potential for sustainable development in these regions is compromised.

3. Analyse the role of government policies in reducing emissions in the construction sector.

1. Government actions have shown positive results, contributing to a stabilization of emissions in 2024.
2. Inger Andersen emphasized the urgency for governments to include emission reduction strategies in their NDCs.
3. Effective policies can drive investment in energy efficiency and sustainable construction practices.
4. Governments play important role in enforcing building codes and standards that support decarbonisation.
5. Collaboration between governments, businesses, and stakeholders is essential for achieving climate goals.

4. Examine the necessity of workforce development programmes in the context of green building practices.

1. Skill shortages in the construction industry hinder the adoption of green technologies and practices.
2. Workforce development programs are essential for training professionals in energy-efficient construction methods.
3. Such programs can facilitate the transition to sustainable building practices and improve overall industry standards.
4. Investment in workforce development is crucial for long-term sustainability and decarbonisation efforts.
5. Building a skilled workforce can enhance innovation and efficiency in the construction sector.