The building and construction sector is a large contributor to New Zealand’s greenhouse gas emissions. This includes emissions from the production of building materials, the construction of buildings, and the generation of energy used in operating buildings. If New Zealand is to reach its climate change goals, including net-zero carbon by 2050, the building and construction sector must play its part.

This document highlights the key themes found from submissions on the 2020 Building for Climate Change Frameworks consultation.

Key findings:

• Almost everyone agreed that the sector needs to reduce emissions, and supported the goals of the Building for Climate Change programme.
• Submissions highlighted the need for clear definitions of building size and type.
• Many respondents wanted the programme to move more quickly and have a more ambitious scope.
• Submissions expressed support for the emissions of existing buildings to be included in the programme’s scope from the start.