EU 2040 Climate Target: Contributions of the buildings sector

The EU is legally obliged to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 and has an interim target for 2030 of reducing net GHG emissions by at least 55% compared to 1990. The European Climate Law also requires the EU to adopt an interim climate target for 2040.

In its communication of 6 February 2024, the European Commission proposed a net emission reduction of 90% by 2040 when compared to 1990. ESABCC (2024) recommends 90–95% reductions. The indicated target range means that all sectors will have to contribute significant emission reductions.

This paper explores the past contribution of the buildings sector to already achieved emission reductions as well as the contribution of the buildings sector to the upcoming 2040 climate target and what it takes for buildings to achieve the related emission reductions.