With the global ambition of achieving carbon neutrality between 2050 and 2100, every country is facing enormous challenges. These include reshaping energy systems, adapting economic models, and transforming lifestyles. The European Union has set the target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. It aims to become the world’s first climate-neutral continent. In addition, by 2030 it seeks to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55 percent compared to 1990 levels. This was the year in which the EU reached its carbon emissions peak. China has announced the goal of achieving carbon neutrality before 2060. It has also pledged that its carbon dioxide emissions will peak before 2030. This sets an earlier milestone on the pathway toward neutrality. “Carbon” deduction solutions are no longer limited to scientists and policymakers. They now engage professionals across all sectors.
What Is Carbon Neutrality?
Carbon neutrality refers to balancing carbon emissions with carbon absorption in natural or technological sinks. This requires either reducing emissions directly or offsetting them by compensating elsewhere. Methods include using renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, or carbon sequestration. Natural sinks — forests, soil, and oceans — remain the most effective absorbers. This is because artificial technologies are not yet able to scale sufficiently.
Why Buildings Matter?
So what do buildings have to do with carbon neutrality? Quite a lot. Globally, buildings account for around 40% of energy use and roughly 30% of CO₂ emissions. They are among the largest single contributors to climate change.
This impact comes in two forms:
- Embodied carbon: the emissions generated by producing and transporting materials such as concrete, steel, and glass. These emissions are “locked in” even before a building is occupied.
- Operational carbon: the energy used for heating, cooling, lighting, and powering buildings throughout their lifespans.
Because buildings are long-lived assets, decisions made today will shape emissions for decades. A structure designed and built in 2025 may still be standing in the next century. It will consume energy and influence the city’s carbon footprint. This also means buildings are a major opportunity. With efficient design, renewable energy integration, and sustainable materials, their emissions can be drastically reduced.
Most of our building stock already exists — and it’s these buildings that hold the greatest potential. Regeneration projects are not a side story; they are the driving force of a sustainable future.
