UN deputy leader addresses North American passive house conference

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Speaking by video link, Amina J Mohammed, deputy secretary general of the UN, outlined the role passive buildings can play in achieving the UN sustainable development goals.

“Buildings are responsible for 32% of global energy consumption, and a quarter of carbon dioxide emissions,” she said. “Improving this sector’s performance is critical for climate action. It will lead to many benefits beyond reducing greenhouse gas emissions, including improving public health, lowering energy demand and increasing economic savings.”

“This gathering is a sign of your commitment to sustainable energy. Your efforts can be a major contribution to the sustainable development goals, and the Paris Agreement on climate change.”

She added: “Passive house buildings are at the frontier of technology and know-how. The insights you are generating need to be applied to the developing world, where millions await the basics of a quality built environment.”

In addition, Michael Møller, the director general of the UN office in Geneva, announced by live video feed from Geneva that a global network of UN centres of excellence in building would be established, with Vancouver and New York City being selected as two of the host cities.