As climate change unfolds, urban areas are increasingly exposed to escalating temperatures, severe weather events, and rising sea levels. These challenges are compounded by the fact that cities, particularly buildings, are significant contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions. To effectively tackle these issues, it is imperative to prioritise the decarbonisation of the buildings and construction sector while bolstering the resilience of cities. Located in the southern coastal region of China, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (Greater Bay Area) stands as a formidable megalopolis. Despite occupying less than one percent of the country's land area, it holds a prominent position as China's economic and innovation powerhouse, contributing approximately 11% to the nation's economy. By undertaking comprehensive measures to enhance the sustainability, efficiency, and resilience of buildings within this megalopolis, a substantial stride can be made toward China's ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2060.
To facilitate the Greater Bay Area's transition towards a low-carbon and resource-efficient buildings and construction sector, dena has taken the initiative to develop a comprehensive regional roadmap. This roadmap incorporates recommendations for eight key action areas, aligning with the UNEP Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction (GlobalABC) framework. In order to ensure practicality and incorporate local perspectives, the project has actively engaged a diverse group of stakeholders, with prominent partners including the China Academy of Building Research (CABR), the ICLEI East Asia Secretariat, and international members of the GlobalABC.
The principal objective of the Roadmap is to provide bespoke guidance to multi-level authorities and companies operating in the Greater Bay Area, enabling them to make sustainable, resource-saving, and climate-friendly decisions in the buildings and construction sector. Given the Greater Bay Area's lighthouse character in China, the knowledge generated and the processes initiated within the roadmap framework has the potential to create a ripple effect throughout the country. As a result, the Greater Bay Area can pave a pathway for other regions in China, leading the way in low-carbon building and construction development and propelling national efforts towards achieving China's net-zero goal.
