UN Reports Global Building Sector Emissions Stalled, Urges Action

A new United Nations report reveals that emissions from the building and construction sector have stalled for the first time since 2020, remaining constant despite ongoing urbanization. The *Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction 2024-2025* highlights that while government actions have led to a nearly 10% reduction in energy intensity and a 5% increase in renewable energy use, significant gaps remain, particularly in emerging economies where over half of new buildings lack mandatory energy codes. UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen emphasized the necessity for accelerated action to meet global climate goals, urging countries to incorporate rapid emission reduction plans in their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). The report also notes that the growth of building construction is finally decoupled from emissions, marking a significant milestone since the Paris Agreement. However, the lack of adequate financing and sluggish progress in decarbonization poses risks to achieving net-zero targets. The report calls for enhanced international collaboration and commitments to decarbonize the building sector ahead of the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference (COP30).