Decarbonizing the Construction Sector: Strategies and Pathways for Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction

Charikleia Karakosta () and Jason Papathanasiou
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Charikleia Karakosta: Decision Support Systems Laboratory, Energy Policy Unit (EPU-NTUA), School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, Ir. Politechniou 9, Zografou, 15780 Athens, Greece
Jason Papathanasiou: Department of Business Administration, University of Macedonia, 156 Egnatia Street, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 5, 1-15

Abstract: The construction sector is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, necessitating urgent decarbonization efforts to align with international climate goals such as the Paris Agreement and the European Green Deal. This study explores a comprehensive framework for construction companies to map and reduce their GHG emissions through a structured four-step approach: defining emission scopes, conducting GHG inventories, setting reduction targets, and planning actionable reductions. Four key pathways are proposed: electricity decarbonization through renewable energy adoption and energy efficiency measures; direct emissions reduction via fleet electrification and infrastructure optimization; recycling and resource efficiency improvements through waste diversion and material reuse; and supply chain emissions reduction by enforcing sustainability standards and responsible sourcing practices. The analysis highlights the importance of integrating technological, organizational, and policy-driven solutions, such as rooftop photovoltaic systems, virtual power purchase agreements, waste management strategies, and supplier codes of conduct aligned with global sustainability benchmarks. The study concludes that construction companies can achieve significant emission reductions by adopting a structured, multi-pathway approach; emphasizing progress over perfection; and aligning their strategies with national and international climate targets. This research provides actionable insights for the construction sector to transition toward a net-zero future by 2050.

Keywords: climate change; energy transition; sustainability; carbon footprint; greenhouse gas emissions; decarbonization; renewable energy; energy efficiency; decision support; construction sector (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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