Building sector identified as major driver of global emissions

The building and construction sector is a critical component of the climate transition, according to data from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Recent estimates suggest that buildings account for approximately 32 percent of global energy consumption.

Regarding emissions, UNEP reports indicate that the sector generates 34 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions. In more recent projections for 2025-2026, this figure rises to 37 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions when accounting for a broader range of materials, such as cement and steel.

Experts suggest that prioritizing the rehabilitation of existing structures over new construction can reduce consumption, improve comfort, and preserve biodiversity. The current approach of urban expansion and material extraction often fails to account for ecological limits, whereas improving efficiency and utilizing low-impact materials could mitigate the sector's long-term climate impact.