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Rebuilding the ‘infrastructure of our lives’

Europe has a leaky buildings problem. Work is underway to update the rules that govern efficiency standards, but politicisation and misinformation risk undermining their foundations. Adrian Joyce of the Renovate Europe campaign shares his concerns and also his hopes for the sector

From FORESIGHT Climate & Energy, Policy Dispatch is a podcast all about the policies that underpin the global energy transition.

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People on average spend 90% of their time in buildings, be it at home, at work or using public services like schools and hospitals. That explains why such a large portion of energy demand is soaked up by buildings and why such a huge chunk of emissions are produced by them. To decarbonise our edifices, several policies have to work harmoniously together, including but not limited to, energy efficiency standards, building codes, renewable energy rules, construction best practices and clean mobility targets. It is not an easy challenge to face but an all-important one if the energy transition is to be realised.

This week, director of the Renovate Europe campaign and former practising architect Adrian Joyce joins the Policy Dispatch to chat about how Europe is trying to clean up its building stock. Adrian discusses with Sam where the money for renovations is going to come from, what legislation is waiting in the pipeline and how politics might impede progress. There is also a round of fact-checking and disinfo-busting of some of the more outlandish claims that have been made about the sector in recent months.
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If you have any thoughts or questions about anything that has been discussed in this week’s episode, you can reach us at our Twitter accounts:Adrian JoyceSam Morgan@Policy DispatchFORESIGHT Climate & Energy


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Show notes:Renovate Europe campaignPezinok castleFORESIGHT Policy Section