The climate crisis demands…decarbonizing everything everywhere

It is almost impossible to fully comprehend how deeply embedded fossil fuels and petroleum-based materials are in current practices of industry, agriculture, transportation, and buildings. Curtailing climate change requires “decarbonizing” every aspect of how buildings are designed, constructed, occupied, renewed, and re-purposed – implemented universally.

Since the 1973 Oil Embargo, the energy efficiency of buildings has improved tremendously, a win-win for owners and policymakers. Driving down energy demand has proceeded consistently for decades while the systemic transformation of energy production has lagged. Both are needed to end climate change.

Zero is a low number, but achievable. Solutions must be comprehensive, holistic, and equitable. The technical challenges of decarbonization must be achieved with justice and equity. Lest we forget, retooling everything everywhere will impact the lives of everyone.