Path to Zero Carbon Emission in the European Construction Sector

Abstract 

Sustainability has been the key topic of discussion in the construction industry at a global level for several years. Every country is aiming to increase sustainability in buildings and facilities that are being constructed. This increased interest in sustainability is due to the huge amount of carbon dioxide emitted by power plants, heavy and light industries, and other buildings. It is essential to reduce carbon emissions as excessive emission can lead to global warming. Hence, various initiatives are being taken by governments and contractors to reduce these emissions. 
 
The European Commission has taken a lead in increasing sustainability and has established a new regulation, which states that by 2050, Europe will have nearly ‘Zero Carbon Emission.’ In order to achieve zero carbon emission, several methods should be adopted by the construction industry, such as increasing energy efficiency in buildings and industrial facilities, sustainable construction, increased usage of renewable energy, and carbon capture and storage. 
 
This paper gives an overview on the key issues of carbon emission due to construction, and discusses the current scenario of the European construction industry in terms of sustainability. We also examine various methods that can be adopted by European countries in order to achieve increased sustainability and the ultimate goal of ‘Zero Carbon Emission.’