how to reach EU’s targets? – POLITICO

Reaching the EU’s 2050 target of becoming carbon neutral by 2050 is impossible without decarbonising much of the economy. The biggest challenge is buildings, which are responsible for 36 percent of the EU’s CO2 emissions. But insulating, retrofitting heating systems and rethinking how new buildings should be built – which includes new carbon-free technologies for steel and cement – presents the bloc with a major economic and political challenge. POLITICO intends to discuss the issues related to the modernization of the European building stock in two working groups, bringing together our specialized journalists and stakeholders.

Working group discussion 1 – How can building materials be decarbonized?

This first working group will address the technological and environmental issues related to the decarbonization of materials like steel and cement, and the regulatory pushes needed to push cities and owners to undertake often very expensive projects.

Confirmed speakers:

1. Catherine Knapton VierlichHead of Unit Construction, DG GROW, European Commission
2. Miljan Gutovic, Head of Region Europe, Holcim
3. MEP Ville Niinistö (Greens/EFA, Finland)
4. Beatriz Yordi Aguirre, Director, Carbon Markets and Clean Mobility, DG CLIMA, European Commission

Working Group Discussion 2 – The Politics of Decarbonising the Built Environment

This second working group will address issues such as the labor shortage that is hampering building renovation, the intricate political dance between building owners and tenants when modernizing buildings, and how local, national and EU politicians must advance the issue without sparking a Yellow Vest revolt in the Style.

Confirmed speakers:

1. MEP Ciarán Cuff (Greens/EFA – Ireland)
2. Miljan Gutovic, Head of Region Europe, Holcim
3. Emmanuelle MaireHead of Unit, Circular Economy, Sustainable Production and Consumption, DG ENV, European Commission
4. Lydia Mutyebele, Housing Advisor, City of Brussels
5. Leslie PetitjeanCircular Economy Officer, International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI)

This working group was Chatham House Rule. The conversation is conducted by a POLITICO reporter and ends in a editorial history.

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For more information please contact us by email at [email protected]. This event is not public.