As part of RiskMetrics’ involvement with the COP15 climate conference in Copenhagen, I spoke on a United Nations Environment Program Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) panel called “Construction Counts for Climate.” I represented UNEP FI’s Property Working Group (on which RMG’s Mario Lopez-Alcala has served for two years), and was joined by the Finnish Minister of Housing and other UNEP representatives.

“Construction Counts,” as the built environment is responsible for at least 40% of global CO2 emissions, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. This actually represents a great opportunity for emissions reduction, as buildings’ emissions can be reduced drastically by making better use of existing technology. COP15 participant Jens Laustsen, senior energy policy analyst (buildings) at the International Energy Agency (IEA), estimates that 75% of the energy used in most buildings can be saved.

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