A Renovation Wave for Europe: Greening EU’s buildings, creating jobs, improving lives

Buildings are responsible for about 40% of the EU’s energy consumption, and 36% of greenhouse gas emissions from energy. But only 1% of buildings undergo energy efficient renovation every year, so effective action is crucial to making Europe climate-neutral by 2050.

By 2030, 35 million buildings could be renovated and up to 160,000 additional green jobs created in the construction sector. 

The Renovation Wave Strategy by the European Commission aims to at least double renovation rates in the next ten years and make sure renovations lead to higher energy and resource efficiency. These efforts will enhance the quality of life for people living in and using the buildings, reduce Europe’s greenhouse gas emissions, foster digitalisation and improve the reuse and recycling of materials.

Speakers:

• Mariangiola Fabbri, Head of Research, Buildings Performance Institute Europe (BPIE)

• Natalie Irwin, Director of Stakeholder Engagement, Efficiency Canada