Building climate law cases that break new ground for greener homes

Background

The buildings sector, especially residential buildings, is one of the biggest sources of greenhouse gas emissions. Improving buildings’ energy efficiency not only helps the environment but also benefits people’s health and wellbeing. 

Despite this, the buildings sector has so far remained an underdeveloped area in climate change litigation. However, more cases are emerging that highlight the crucial role of energy efficiency in combating climate change.

The scale of the problem

• The buildings sector accounts for as much as 37% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions worldwide, according to the United Nations Environment Programme.
• Within the sector, residential buildings are responsible for more than half of those emissions. 

What’s covered in the report?

This legal briefing paper provides an overview of emerging trends in climate change cases in the buildings sector, focusing on the energy efficiency of residential buildings. Our research found the four main types of legal action in this area are:

1. General challenges to government climate policies.
2. Conflicts between central governments and local governments in terms of the laws and regulations.
3. The efficiency standards of specific appliances.
4. Human rights and just transition cases.

The increasing legal push to make homes more energy efficient means that developers, landlords and policymakers need to prioritise energy-saving measures and adhere to stricter regulations to avoid potential legal challenges.

Download and read the full briefing.