The real estate sector is one of the largest contributors to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, representing 34% of total carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. It is also one of the more challenging sectors to decarbonize due to the decentralized nature of building ownership and the significant role of value chain emissions, notably from power grids and construction. 

This briefing note for banks identifies a number of barriers which are hindering the deployment of these decarbonization levers. It presents key policies that can address these barriers and aims to support dialogue to advance policies that stimulate markets and spur capital deployment to accelerate the decarbonization of the real estate sector, as well as providing concrete policy examples.