Environment & Sustainability

One of the most influential European practice schemes to support energy efficiency investments in the building sector with public funds, was developed jointly by the German government with the KfW bank in 2006. Notwithstanding the program's scale, the annual renovation rate is still only around 1%, while around 3% is needed for a decarbonization of the building stock by 2045.

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) enable the comparison of building energy consumption, making energy efficiency a key selling point for property sales or rentals. This analysis examines the current status of EPCs in Germany.

The staggering amount of waste generated by the disposable fashion model has become a major problem over the years. Newer business models utilize systems thinking and aim to move away from a linear system and towards a closed loop scenario.

Focusing on offshore wind and green hydrogen: What are the prospects of transforming the North Sea into a green power plant for Europe?

Meat consumption is a contentious issue for multiple reasons, with many condemning the practice on moral, ethical or religious grounds. But its climate impact is indisputable.

Corporate power in shaping public policy now faces a transformative challenge: the urgent decarbonization imperative. 

How do we balance urban public spaces and efficient movement? The Good Street approach rethinks city planning to harmonize place and flow, addressing safety, livability, and mobility. What strategies ensure streets are safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for all?

Sustainable finance developments in France and Italy mark a vital shift towards eco-friendly and socially responsible investments. These countries lead by example, but the path is layered with challenges. 

With rising awareness of climate change, demand for green products grows. However, the market's expansion also increases greenwashing practices.

Since summer 2021, increased economic activity post-COVID-19, along with supply chain shortages, inflation, the Russian war in Ukraine, and an unstable international business climate, have driven up energy prices, significantly impacting households and businesses.