CLEW Masterclass: How to report on the construction sector’s hidden climate impact

Buildings begin polluting long before they are put to use and continue to do so when they have to be torn down. In fact, by 2050, constructing buildings is estimated to have the same climate warming impact as inhabiting them. These hidden emissions — known as embodied or grey emissions — are pushed into the spotlight as heating and cooling buildings falls closer in line with climate targets.

The challenges, and benefits, to making construction climate-friendly are threefold: the sector will need to find ways to reduce emissions, resource use, and waste. Reimagining construction practices, introducing circular economy principles, and decarbonising materials will all play a role. However, socioeconomic and cultural aspects will also need to feature in the discussion to achieve true sustainability. There are materials, technologies and new approaches to make buildings truly climate friendly, but often old habits get in the way of progress.

To reach climate neutrality, the climate and environmental impacts of construction deserve more attention in the public discourse. This masterclass follows CLEW's deep dive into embodied emissions, including analyses, interviews and a factsheet. During the hour-long session, journalists will learn about:

• Why it's important to address construction when reporting on the buildings' sector
• The state of play and where EU legislation stands
• What the most promising solutions are
• Lessons learnt from reporting on construction, underreported topics and future story leads
• Who valuable contacts are

We hope this format fosters a conversation between peers, and we actively encourage journalists to share their own experience. This session will not be recorded and statements are off the record.