This commitment will require deep collaboration across the entire value chain, and radical transformation in the way buildings are designed, built, occupied and deconstructed. It requires new business models that promote circularity, re-use of buildings and materials, whole lifecycle thinking, high-performance operations, and ultimately, a shift away from fossil fuels.
Specifically, the commitment requires that by 2030:
- Existing buildings reduce their energy consumption and eliminate emissions from energy and refrigerants removing fossil fuel use as fast as practicable (where applicable). Where necessary, compensate for residual emissions.
- New developments and major renovations are built to be highly efficient, powered by renewables, with a maximum reduction in embodied carbon and compensation of all residual upfront emissions.
“Becoming a signatory of the Net Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment is a no brainer,” said Eric Corey Freed, CannonDesign’s Director of Sustainability. “CannonDesign is committed to leading the change toward a net zero carbon built environment through the buildings we design and our leadership. As an industry, we are behind when it comes to combating climate change, but we are not powerless. We are excited to be part of this team and to amplify our efforts to slash carbon emissions and shape the built environment for both people and the planet.”
According to the World Green Building Council, those in the sector are globally responsible for 36% of energy consumption, 38% of energy related emissions, 50% of resource consumptions, and expected to double in total footprint by 2060. That’s why this commitment is crucial now more than ever.
The Commitment now has a total of 169 signatories, including 135 businesses and organizations, 28 cities, and six states and regions. This pledge joins our growing list of sustainability commitments including the 1.5°C COP26 Communiqué to Support Climate Action, SE2050 and numerous important others.
