Achieving energy efficient, zero-emission buildings for sustainable, pollution-free cities

Housing is at the heart of the New Urban Agenda and SDG11. Furthermore, the way we design and build our homes and public buildings determines whether we will deliver against all three commitments of the New Urban Agenda and multiple SDGs (7, 13, 12 and 15 as well as 1, 3 and 8). Buildings and construction are responsible for some 40% of energy consumption and related GHG emissions. Building design and stability are critical in building resilience, choices in building materials influence our resource use. Thermal comfort and indoor air quality are determinants of health. Finally, as one of the biggest providers of work spaces in many economies, involving all professions and integrating the informal sector are key to transforming markets. This event will showcase commitments made to date, and provide an opportunity to exchange on good practices, with a focus on: u25cf Addressing cities' greenhouse gas emissions through increased energy efficiency in buildings and construction. u25cf Promoting energy efficient, zero-emission buildings. u25cf Enhancing buildings' resilience as crucial ingredient to make cities safe and resilient. u25cf Transforming markets by engaging private sector players and informal workers. Consortium members will highlight essential contributions as well as the buildings and construction sector's potential for achieving sustainable, pollution-free, and resilient cities. The Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction (GABC) is a voluntary, international, multi-stakeholder partnership which gathers over 100 members from around the globe including governments and non-state actors. The GABC works towards a zero-emission, efficient and resilient buildings and construction sector and has two flagship products: a Global Roadmap and a Global Status Report. The Nubian Vault Association (AVN) is an international NGO, member of the GABC, and working in five countries in West Africa disseminating the Nubian Vault, an appropriate, affordable, and sustainable low carbon housing solution.