Global Policy Principles for a Sustainable Built Environment

As the global community grapples with the twin crises of climate change and rapid urbanization, the need for sustainable practices in the built environment has never been more critical. The construction and operation of buildings and infrastructure contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, resource depletion, and environmental degradation. However, the built environment also holds tremendous potential to drive positive change by adopting sustainable practices that balance ecological preservation, social equity, and economic viability.

The Global Policy Principles for a Sustainable Built Environment serve as a comprehensive framework to guide governments, industry leaders, and stakeholders in fostering resilient, inclusive, and environmentally responsible development. These principles emphasize the importance of integrating sustainability into every phase of the building lifecycle—from planning, design, and construction to operation, maintenance, and eventual decommissioning. By aligning global policies with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and international climate agreements, these principles aim to create a future where the built environment enhances human well-being while preserving the planet’s ecosystems.

This document outlines the key policy areas essential for achieving a sustainable built environment, including resource efficiency, carbon reduction, circular economy practices, resilience to climate impacts, and community inclusivity. It calls for collaborative efforts across sectors and scales, recognizing that sustainable urbanization requires holistic approaches, innovative technologies, and collective action to meet the urgent environmental and social challenges of our time.

source :

https://worldgbc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/WorldGBC-Global-Policy-Principles_FINAL.pdf