Rethinking Our Cities from the Ground Up

Today is National Skyscraper Day – a time to reflect on how our cities are reaching new heights alongside rising populations, increased housing demands, and, consequently, higher emissions. But what steps are builders and communities taking to lessen the environmental impact of skyscrapers? Architects have a new role, reduce emissions and adapt to climate change all while keeping the buildings useful and aesthetically welcoming. 

The Growing Urban World

Globally, buildings account for about 30–40% of global energy consumption, making them one of the largest contributors of greenhouse gas emissions that are directly linked to climate change. Urban populations are going to continue to grow – in fact more than 50% of the world population lives in cities, and it is expected 2.4 billion more people will be urban by 2050. And more people means more  energy demands from residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Improving the energy efficiency of buildings can go a long way in addressing environmental concerns, and can deliver tangible economic and health benefits. Lower operating costs, puts money back into the pockets of all those involved in these buildings; tenants, builders, architects and the like. 

Back to the Basics 

To achieve more efficiency in buildings, a wide array of technology and design decisions are being deployed across new construction and updating of existing buildings. Some of these solutions are relatively simple and have been practiced for millenia, like placing buildings strategically to best maximize on natural ventilation, which can cut cooling costs in half, and light, which can save 40% of the cost of lighting. Other technologies like improved insulation, smart air systems, lighting and appliances designed to reduce energy use further decrease  demand while keeping up with the much needed functionality. This combo of old thinking and new technology can maximize the use of our buildings!

Energy in, Energy Out

A global shift to energy efficient buildings is already well under way and increasingly intertwined with the rise of net-zero and net- positive construction. These new buildings are designed to minimize energy consumption but also generate enough energy from on site renewable systems. A net-zero building merely balances energy use and consumption, while a net-positive gives back to the grid through its own power generation. This evolution in building is driven by technological innovation coupled with the awareness that man-made environments are large contributors to greenhouse gases, but can actually become solutions! Solar photovoltaic panels, geothermal heat pumps, and small scale wind turbines can be integrated into buildings and landscapes, providing a futuristic look, reducing costs, and better for the planet. 

The Future is Here!

This may sound like a pipe dream, but it’s already happening across the globe. In Amsterdam, you have The Edge, opened in 2014 and cited as the the smartest and most sustainable office building in the world. It generates more energy that is consumed through its extensive solar array and energy management systems. The building is covered in sensors that optimize lighting, temperature, and occupancy. Here in the United States, we have the PAE Living Building, located in Portland, Oregon and designed to last 5 centuries. This building generates over 100% of its energy needs via solar power and harnesses 100% of its water from rain entrapments. During construction over 98% of waste was diverted, much of which has gone to community equity via shared renewable infrastructure. 

The transition to energy-efficient, renewable powered buildings is happening and happening fast. Buildings are being retrofitted and new ones are being built, all to optimize energy efficiency. Retrofitting tends to be even more eco-friendly than new construction because you are not producing new materials such as steel or concrete that act as the foundation for the building. Incremental updates can also be carried out, which for many builders can be more economical. First replace the light bulbs for more efficiency and then move onto updating your HVAC system, then keep on going through improving insulation where you can, like replacing windows. 

However, retrofitting can come with significant constraints. Many older buildings were not designed with energy efficiency in mind, making it challenging to incorporate modern systems without major structural or spatial compromises. Outdated layouts may not accommodate efficient HVAC or renewable energy systems, while limited space can restrict the installation of insulation, ductwork, or solar panels. Additionally, legacy electrical and mechanical systems can be costly or complex to upgrade, often requiring custom solutions that add time and expense.

That said, retrofitting remains a powerful tool where demolition and new construction may not be feasible. Innovative solutions such as modular energy systems, high-efficiency window replacements, green roofs, and smart building controls are increasingly being used to modernize older skyscrapers. 

In contrast, new construction offers a blank canvas (albeit within regulatory limits) enabling architects and engineers to design with energy saving at the forefront, seamlessly integrating those technologies. 

Push for Policy 

Policy frameworks are essential to scaling these approaches, retrofit and new construction. Building performance standards, such as those implemented by the European Union’s Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, is putting pressure on jurisdictions to set minimum energy thresholds for new and existing buildings. Other certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), BREEAM ( Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), are among other certifications that can incentivize building to be more efficient. But why wait to improve efficiency, these updates and upgrades save money and help the planet. To me it is a no brainer. 

That’s why the EPA’s authority under the Endangerment Finding, which enables the agency to regulate climate pollution from buildings and other sources, is so vital. Weakening or eliminating this authority would undermine decades of climate action and stall momentum just as we need it most. If we want cleaner, healthier, and more efficient buildings in every community, we need strong policies, and strong public support, to make it happen. Add your name to our public comments and help defend the EPA’s ability to act on climate.

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