Reducing Building-Related Carbon Emissions
Explore MIT research + analysis on building efficiency.
Buildings account for more than 30% of global CO₂ emissions, making the built environment a critical focus for climate policy.
This focal area highlights MIT research on reducing building-related emissions, scaling energy-efficient technologies, and designing cities that are more resilient and adaptable in the face of climate change.
UN Climate Change News | July 11, 2025
Accelerating Climate Technologies for Buildings and Infrastructure
The MIT Climate Policy Center was one of the organizers of an event on this topic hosted by the Technology Mechanism under the UNFCCC. MIT Professor Christoph Reinhart was one of the presenters.
Learn MoreResearch + Analysis
Explore research papers and publications from our faculty and research.
MITx Online: Sustainable Building Design
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Focal Area Experts
MIT Resources
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UBEM.IO
Developed in collaboration with the MIT Sustainable Design Lab, UBEM.IO is a free web service to support policymakers develop carbon reduction pathways for existing buildings or new developments.
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building for zero
building for zero is an interactive research and simulation tool that explores the challenges facing the building industry as it works toward zero emissions. Developed by the Digital Structures Group & the Sustainable Design Lab at MIT.
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Massachusetts Building Inventory
This web app, developed by the MIT Sustainable Design Lab, estimates annual utility costs and related greenhouse gas emissions for residential buildings in MA.
Stay up to date on the latest MIT research on building efficiency.
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Our Focal Areas
Explore curated resources from our center’s strategic focal areas, organized around key climate policy issues.