This study analyses the Zero-Emission Building (ZEB) standard and the mandatory calculation and disclosure of Life-Cycle Global Warming Potential (GWP) for new buildings within the EU’s Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD). The new extensive body of legislation was created to achieve an energy efficient, sustainable, and decarbonised building stock by 2050.
EPG experts argue that the provisions for new buildings significantly expand on what constitutes a “sustainable” building. While energy use and carbon emissions from buildings’ operation remain a central concern, the new regulatory framework adds a wider perspective, which includes circularity, renewable energy sources, and whole-life carbon impacts.
Author’s Conclusion:
“The study identifies several levers for policy development at the national level, essential to strengthen the implementation of the EU policy framework to improve the prospects of a sustainable building sector.
These include expanding spatial boundaries of assessment to set limits to the construction of ZEB buildings against national and local carbon budgets; developing cross-sectoral municipal planning frameworks to enable ZEB compliance, particularly in dense urban areas; addressing demand through sufficiency-oriented measures; and building public and stakeholder acceptance around such measures.”
– Aura Oancea
For further details and media inquiries, please contact Aura Oancea at: aura.oancea@epg-thinktank.org