A just decarbonisation of the built environment

It is widely acknowledged that we need to decarbonise our societies and in this the built environment plays a major part.

The buildings sector, policy makers, financial stakeholders, and the civil society are putting in a lot of efforts to build back better and decarbonise the built environment. But there are indications that a narrow focus on decarbonisation comes with a price.

A narrow focus may have a negative impact on social equity, if it is not addressed as an integrated dimension of the decarbonisation projects and processes.

To fertilise this development and focus on social impacts, Ramboll was engaged by the Laudes Foundation to do a new type of study. The study investigates social sustainability aspects to promote a transition that is not only green but also just and inclusive.

Solving the carbon emission challenge could create even bigger societal challenges if the societal effects are left out. On the other hand, the report also makes it clear that decarbonising could present a space of opportunities. If social impacts are addressed as part of the processes, it could mitigate and advance social equity in the built environment.

By the extensive work, Ramboll was able to bring forward the clear recommendation that future work should include social impacts in life cycle assessments for each building and enhance focus on social equality when planning the future decarbonised built environment.

The study was done by a multidisciplinary team of expert from Ramboll. Experts within strategic sustainability, policy advice, evaluation and technical aspects were involved. The Laudes foundation and Ramboll have teamed up on a variety of projects addressing the Laudes Foundation key focus areas within decarbonisation and sustainability in the build environment.

The report was concluded in May 2021 and served as an important part of the Laudes Foundations work to address societal impacts when working with otherwise often technical solutions to sustainability issues.

The report : Laudes Foundation Report.pdf

Just transition Quick Guide: just-and-inclusive-transition-quick-guide.pdf