The hidden social and climate costs of Europe’s decrepit buildings
This briefing from Friends of the Earth Europe and Climate Action Network Europe lays out the hidden social, environmental and economic costs of Europe’s run-down buildings – and the multiple benefits of renovating Europe.
Europe’s buildings are among the biggest contributors to the climate crisis, as well as health inequality – but to date one of the least addressed. This briefing argues that renovating our buildings is an opportunity that can’t be missed to tackle climate change, end energy poverty, and create green jobs.
However, the current pace of renovations is too slow – the EU must triple building renovations, introduce minimum standards for energy performance, provide adequate financing, and prioritise low income households.