Building-related
Emissions
Worldwide, buildings are responsible for around 40% of energy and process-related CO2 emissions and 50% of all extracted materials. Other environmental pressures from urban development include resource depletion, air, water and land pollution and biodiversity loss. With such a significant impact, it is essential that the built environment delivers the transformative change necessary to address urgent global challenges.
Source: www.worldgbc.org
Understanding a building's CO2 emissions empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions that align with environmental goals, regulatory requirements, and economic considerations. It allows them to contribute to sustainability efforts while at the same time benefiting financially and increasing the overall value of their property:
Environmental Responsibility
Building owners are increasingly aware of their role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Actively monitoring emissions is a way to take responsibility for the environmental impact of a property and contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change.
Cost Savings
Higher emissions correlate directly with higher energy consumption. By tracking emissions and implementing energy-efficient upgrades, building owners can dramatically reduce their ongoing operating costs.
Energy Efficiency Improvements
Understanding CO2 emissions helps highlight areas of inefficient building operations. By identifying these areas, owners can implement energy-saving measures and improvements to reduce emissions and lower operating expenses.
Renewable Energy Integration
Establishing a building's baseline emissions allows building owners to gauge the effectiveness of renewable energy investments, like solar panels, in reducing emissions and lowering electricity bills.
Tenant Attraction and Retention
With increasing environmental awareness, tenants are seeking eco-friendly living and working spaces. Buildings that demonstrate a tangible commitment to reducing CO2 emissions are better positioned to both attract new tenants and retain existing ones over the long term.
Asset Value
Sustainability and energy efficiency are becoming important factors in property valuation. Buildings with lower CO2 emissions and better energy performance are increasingly recognized as more valuable real-estate assets.
Long-Term Strategic Planning
Actively monitoring CO2 emissions helps building owners develop long-term sustainability plans. This includes setting emission reduction targets, tracking progress, and adapting strategies to achieve financial and environmental performance goals.
Compliance and Regulations
A wide range of regulations and standards are being enacted both locally and globally related to emissions reductions, energy efficiency and other environmental disclosures. Building owners need to stay informed about their building's emissions to ensure compliance with these regulations, maintain a positive reputation, avoid fines and facilitate access to both foreign and domestic markets.
Risk Management
Climate change and environmental issues pose risks to property value and long-term viability. Building owners who understand their building's emissions can more easily develop strategies to mitigate these risks.
