The World Green Building Council (WorldGBC) has unveiled new factsheets providing guidance on two key measures recently introduced to the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD): Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) and Life Cycle Global Warming Potential (GWP).

These factsheets aim to assist EU member states in implementing the new EPBD measures within their national frameworks, a process that must be completed within two years.

The guidance documents offer a comprehensive overview of the measures, along with a timeline of action points for implementation.

MEPS are designed to drive the renovation of existing buildings in Europe.

The EPBD has introduced different approaches for non-residential and residential buildings, as detailed in the factsheets.

Also known as whole life carbon (WLC), this indicator quantifies a building’s contribution to global warming potential throughout its entire life cycle, encompassing both operational and embodied emissions.

The factsheets include a checklist outlining the conditions that need to be met at the national level to fulfil the EPBD measures.

Additionally, they provide recommendations for national governments regarding regulations, information, and incentives required for successful implementation.

WorldGBC plans to work closely with its Europe Regional Network of Green Building Councils and partners to support national governments, EU policymakers, and the building and construction industry in implementing the EPBD.

These factsheets are part of a broader toolkit that WorldGBC will be releasing in the coming months, including case study reports and position papers related to the EPBD.

This initiative supports the #BuildingLife campaign, which aims to drive public and private sector action to address the whole-life carbon impact of buildings and promote sustainable construction practices across Europe.

The release of these guidance documents underscores WorldGBC’s commitment to advancing sustainable and decarbonized built environments globally.

As the building sector plays a crucial role in combating climate change, these new measures and accompanying guidance are expected to significantly contribute to reducing the environmental impact of buildings throughout the European Union.