Energy Efficiency, GHG Emissions, Regulation  -  August 28, 2018

19 Mayors sign Net Zero Carbon pledge

Mayors from 19 cities around the world signed a pledge to enact regulations and/or planning policy to ensure new buildings operate at net zero carbon by 2030 and all buildings by 2050. The Net Zero Carbon Buildings Declaration is an initiative of C40 Cities.

Utility Dive reported the Declaration was signed by majors of Copenhagen, Denmark; Johannesburg; London; Los Angeles; Montreal; New York City; Newburyport, MA; Paris; Portland, OR; San Francisco; San Jose, CA; Santa Monica, CA; Stockholm; Sydney; Tokyo; Toronto; Tshwane, South Africa; Vancouver, and Washington, DC.  

The Declaration states, “Action is needed today, because most buildings will be standing for generations to come. Missing this opportunity locks in the problem for our children and grandchildren, but delivering on this commitment will provide benefits for our citizens to enjoy long into the future. From lower energy bills for all, including our most vulnerable citizens, to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and cleaner air, the positive impacts of action are undeniable.”

The Declaration noted that in order to meet this commitment, the following steps will be taken:

• Establish a roadmap for our commitment to reach net zero carbon buildings.
• Develop a suite of supporting incentives and programmes.
• Report annually on progress towards meeting our targets, and evaluate the feasibility of reporting on emissions beyond operational carbon (such as refrigerants).