A UNEP report warns that slowing progress in decarbonising buildings threatens global climate goals, despite gains in energy efficiency and green construction worldwide.

📻 Breaking It Down

NAIROBI, Kenya, May 19 — A new global report by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction has warned that progress in decarbonising the buildings and construction sector is slowing, threatening global climate targets and increasing exposure to energy price shocks.

The findings are contained in the tenth edition of the Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction (2025–2026) , released Tuesday in Nairobi.

According to the report, buildings’ operational emissions rose by one per cent in 2024 to reach 9.9 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide, despite ongoing global efforts to improve energy efficiency.

📌 What You Need to Know

The sector remains one of the world’s largest sources of emissions, accounting for nearly 37 per cent of global emissions, 28 per cent of global energy consumption, and almost half of total material extraction worldwide.

The report warns that although buildings are gradually becoming more energy efficient, the pace of change remains insufficient to align with the global net-zero target for 2050.

“From homes and schools to hospitals and workplaces, buildings play a fundamental role in our lives,” said United Nations Environment Programme Executive Director Inger Andersen.

“Buildings can either lock in climate risks or deliver safer, healthier, and more affordable living conditions.”

Andersen added that with half of the world’s future building stock yet to be constructed or renovated by 2050, governments face a critical opportunity to drive zero-emission construction through stronger policies, building codes, and investment.

The report comes amid rising global concern over housing and energy affordability, noting that climate-aligned construction could help reduce energy bills, improve living conditions, and strengthen resilience against climate-related disasters.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya