The building sector contributes up to 30% of global annual greenhouse gas emissions and consumes up to 40% of all energy [1]. Accordingly, the building sector has the greatest potential for climate change mitigation [2]. The development of mitigation and adaptation strategies has become a major challenge for the building industry. These strategies are, of course, local climate and environment dependent.
Prime mitigation strategies are: 1) improving energy efficiency of new and existing buildings, 2) integrating renewable energy technologies, and 3) using earth-friendly materials. Adaptation involves making buildings more resilient and responsive to extreme events and weather fluctuations. Any thoughts on adaptation strategies and the role of building science?
[1] UNEP-SBCI. Buildings and Climate Change – Summary for Decision-Makers. United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and Sustainable Buildings and Climate Initiative (SBCI) 2009.
[2] IPCC. Climate Change 2007 – Mitigation of Climate Change. Working Group III Contribution to the Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) 2007.