Accounting for nearly 40% of global energy-related CO2 emissions and sometimes as much as 70% in large cities, buildings and construction are central to the low-carbon transition. Decarbonising buildings, especially the old stock, through energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy use, not only reduces carbon emissions, but also generates co-benefits in health, energy affordability and the labour market.

How can we rapidly transform the global building sector to combat climate change? This report, based on the OECD Global Survey on Buildings and Climate, presents a comprehensive analysis of the endeavours undertaken by 28 countries across continents to decarbonise and bolster the resilience of their buildings. By examining policy objectives, measures, and trends, the report offers valuable insights into how countries are developing effective strategies for decarbonising buildings. These strategies often involve a step-by-step approach, for example, beginning with targeted measures in buildings that are more feasible or have a greater impact. Successful measures are then scaled up to achieve broader decarbonisation goals. Furthermore, the report emphasises the importance of a multi-level approach, including breaking down silos between government departments. With 93% of responding countries reporting that at least three ministries are involved in decarbonising building measures. The report also underscores the importance of international cooperation and knowledge sharing to fast-forward progress towards a more sustainable built environment.

This report provides the main components of existing circular economy initiatives promoted in Estonia and in the city of Tallinn, key challenges and policy recommendations to help the city develop its long-term vision on the circular economy, setting targets for the future.

Smart cities leverage technologies, in particular digital, to generate a vast amount of real-time data to inform policy- and decision-making for an efficient and effective public service delivery. Their success largely depends on the availability and effective use of data.

Building on broader OECD work on climate, this report proposes a new OECD territorial climate indicator framework and demonstrates that the potential to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, adapt to climate impacts and address vulnerabilities vary across different territories, by using a new OECD territorial climate indicator framework.

The OECD Territorial Review of the Brussels-Capital Region, Belgium, provides an in-depth assessment of the trends, challenges and opportunities for sustainable and inclusive urban development in the region.