Decarbonization in Building Construction and Operation

First and foremost, this process seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions throughout a building’s entire life cycle, from construction to ongoing operations.

By adopting innovative and sustainable strategies, it is possible to transform the environmental impact of developments and generate economic, social, and environmental value.

Decarbonization in the Construction Phase

The main challenge lies in embodied emissions, generated by the production, transportation, and application of materials. Therefore, decarbonizing construction involves choices such as:

Use of low-carbon materials (cement with pozzolanic additions, recycled steel, certified wood)

Efficient construction systems (modular, prefabricated)

Waste planning and management to reduce impacts

In this way, low-carbon practices help minimize emissions from the very beginning of a building’s life cycle. In addition, they promote circular economy principles and resource efficiency.

Decarbonization in the Operation Phase

During operation, emissions mainly come from electricity consumption, air conditioning, and lighting. To advance in the decarbonization of buildings in use, it is essential to:

Invest in energy efficiency and building automation

Use renewable energy, such as photovoltaic solar power

Design spaces with natural ventilation, efficient lighting, and thermal comfort

Reduce water consumption and adopt smart monitoring systems

In other words, each measure reduces costs while contributing to sustainability. On the other hand, neglecting these practices can increase regulatory and financial risks.

Monitoring and Certifications

Continuous decarbonization requires monitoring results through consumption indicators, sustainability reports, and international certifications (LEED, WELL, TRUE, Fitwel). These tools ensure transparency, progress, and credibility for companies and investors.

Decarbonization: Trend or Necessity?

More than just a trend, building decarbonization is an urgent response to the climate crisis. In Brazil, the construction sector represents 6% of national emissions — about 139 million tons of CO₂ per year — and consumes 51% of the country’s electricity. To accelerate the transition, the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI) launched in 2023 the Net Zero Buildings project, aiming for implementation by 2029, supported by international financing and pilot programs.

Benefits of Building Decarbonization

Adopting low-carbon practices generates tangible advantages, including:

Reduction of embodied and operational emissions

Long-term sustainable cost savings

Increased real estate asset value

Compliance with ESG and regulatory requirements

In short, decarbonization is strategic for both the environment and business.

Cushman & Wakefield’s Solutions for Decarbonization

With its Sustainability and Projects team, Cushman & Wakefield supports companies in transitioning to a more sustainable and competitive portfolio. To this end, it offers:

Carbon and sustainability consulting

LCA and GHG Protocol for emissions quantification

Low-carbon projects and construction

Environmental performance management and ESG reporting

Renewable energy implementation and energy efficiency

Internationally recognized environmental certifications

Thus, we deliver practical and effective solutions for every stage of a building’s life cycle. As a result, our clients reduce emissions, strengthen their reputation, and increase competitiveness.

Conclusion

Decarbonization in the construction and operation of buildings is a one-way path. With integrated solutions, our Sustainability and Projects team supports clients in reducing emissions, innovating in materials and technologies, and achieving environmental certifications.

Together, we can accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy and transform the future of the real estate sector.