Built environment can deliver viable climate change solutions

The UKGBC has responded to the latest UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report which outlines how a liveable future is possible if Governments show the critical will to finance, incentivise, activate and mainstream solutions.

The IPCC) published the final part of its Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) on global climate change

In the report, the IPCC outlines how a liveable future is possible if Governments show the critical will to finance, incentivise, activate and mainstream solutions

This report summarises and integrates the findings of three IPCC Working Group contributions and three Special Reports on Warming of 1.5 °C, Climate Change and Land, and the Ocean and Cryosphere.

Simon McWhirter, Deputy Chief Executive said: “This report is the final call for governments across the world, reinforcing again that the pace and scale of what has been done so far, and current plans, are totally insufficient to tackle the climate crisis.

“Quite simply, we are walking when we should be sprinting.

“The report clearly identifies the solution lies in climate-resilient development in which the built environment has a critical role to play. Our industry can deliver countless viable opportunities to not only slash emissions but to build a more climate resilient, nature positive and equitable economy.

“But we need the political ambition, financial incentives and harnessing of talent and technology to make this happen at scale.

“The UK Government must use this report as an opportunity to finally put our net zero future at the heart of everything it does. By delivering nationwide projects to upgrade home energy efficiency and reforming the planning system to deliver buildings and spaces fit for our net zero future, the Government can mainstream proven, scalable solutions to the climate and cost of living crises.

“The forthcoming Net Zero Strategy, response to Mission Zero, and third National Adaptation Programme (NAP3) must tangibly and practically map out how the UK will deliver on the IPCC’s urgent calls to action.”

There are multiple, feasible and effective options to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to human-caused climate change, and they are available now, said scientists in the latest IPCC report.

“Mainstreaming effective and equitable climate action will not only reduce losses and damages for nature and people, it will also provide wider benefits,” said IPCC Chair Hoesung Lee. “This Synthesis Report underscores the urgency of taking more ambitious action and shows that, if we act now, we can still secure a liveable sustainable future for all.”