Addressing energy consumption and related GHG emissions from buildings constitute a major challenge in the light of the climate crisis. At the same time, the interplay of building policies with other policy areas comes into focus with sector coupling, digitalization but also lifecycle considerations and adaptation to climate change. For the European Commission Directorate-General for Energy, the Buildings Performance Institute Europe (BPIE), Climact, Creara Consultores and Ecologic Institute investigate which lessons can be learned from already existent integrated policy approaches for new buildings and buildings undergoing a major renovation.

The assessment includes the strategic areas financing, engaging transformation and district approaches as well as cross-sectoral areas of buildings and mobility, digital technology, health and wellbeing and the built environment and adaptation. The analysis is based on country-specific research of relevant policy measures including states and regions from the different climatic zones of Europe plus the USA. The Ecologic Institute analyses the national and regional policy approaches for the interaction of buildings and sustainable mobility as well as for the built environment and adaptation including nature-based solutions. The Ecologic Institute also covers the country research for Germany and Baden-Württemberg as well as Tirol, UK and the USA.

The results are summarized in a roadmap to depict, which policy instruments are vital for progressing on the renovation and modernization of the built environment. The Ecologic Institute participates in all work packages.