Building Decarbonization and Health

Introduction

Building decarbonization—reducing or eliminating greenhouse gas emissions from buildings—is no longer just a climate imperative. It is also a public health strategy. The built environment contributes roughly 37% of global CO₂ emissions, according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), with nearly two-thirds coming from building operations such as heating, cooling, and electricity use. Transitioning toward low-carbon buildings not only mitigates climate change but also directly improves indoor and community health.

Cleaner Energy, Cleaner Air

One of the greatest health benefits of decarbonization is the reduction of air pollution. Buildings that rely on fossil fuels for heating or cooking emit nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), carbon monoxide, and fine particulate matter (PM2.5)—pollutants associated with asthma, cardiovascular disease, and premature death.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 3.2 million deaths annually are linked to indoor air pollution from inefficient combustion. Electrifying heating and cooking, combined with renewable energy, drastically cuts these emissions. Studies by the International Energy Agency (IEA) show that widespread electrification of buildings could prevent up to 200,000 premature deaths per year globally by improving outdoor and indoor air quality.

Thermal Comfort and Mental Health

Decarbonized buildings also improve thermal and psychological well-being. Traditional fossil-fuel systems often cause uneven heating, excessive humidity, or poor ventilation—all linked to discomfort and respiratory irritation.

Low-carbon systems, such as heat pumps and high-performance envelopes, maintain stable indoor temperatures with cleaner air circulation. Research from the Harvard Healthy Buildings Program indicates that occupants in energy-efficient buildings experience higher cognitive performance and fewer symptoms of sick-building syndrome compared to conventional spaces.

Furthermore, decarbonization encourages the integration of natural daylight, passive design, and biophilic materials, all of which enhance mood, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality.

Equity and Environmental Justice

Fossil fuel use in buildings disproportionately affects low-income and marginalized communities, who are often exposed to higher levels of indoor pollutants and energy insecurity. Building decarbonization—paired with weatherization and electrification assistance—can reduce health inequities by lowering exposure to combustion emissions and providing more stable thermal environments.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), energy-burdened households spend three times more on utilities and often rely on unsafe heating sources that increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Decarbonization policies that include affordability programs thus serve both climate resilience and public health equity.

Conclusion

Decarbonizing buildings is more than an environmental goal—it is a health intervention. Reducing emissions improves air quality, mental health, and equity while enhancing comfort and productivity. The healthiest buildings of the future will not just be low-carbon; they will be human-centered ecosystems, supporting both planetary and personal well-being.

References

• United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) – Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction

• World Health Organization (WHO) – Health and Air Pollution Data Repository

• International Energy Agency (IEA) – Energy Efficiency and Air Quality Reports

• *Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health – Healthy Buildings Program

• U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) – Building Technologies Office: Decarbonization and Equity Reports