Opportunities for green building in the EU

Ambitious policy of the EU commission is insisting on a total 20% of EU electricity consumption to come from renewable energy by 2020.

The stable demand for technology and the natural innovation that it brings is the basis of a new renewable market in the EU.

And it doesn't stop there - it also includes 10% consumption of renewables in transportation; this target is mandatory for everyone.

As part of the broader climate package, 20% reduction in carbon emissions and energy consumption was also agreed.

Dominating the renewable directive is electricity, transportation, heating and cooling - three principal end uses of energy, all energy intensive and vunerable to external shocks.

[2] With member states now looking at methods to increase their renewable energy resources and increase energy efficiency, green building and future sustainable urban environments are high on the agenda.

As such the European Future Energy Forum has dedicated a Future Urban Zone to display a gallery of sustainable design concepts and 3-dimensional models to show the cutting edge of development in this market.

Working in association with Masdar (an initiative driven by the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company) the Forum will also include a case study presentation on Masdar City, currently under construction in Abu Dhabi.

Masdar City will be the world's first carbon-neutral, zero-waste city completely powered by renewable energy.

The City is a reflection of a long term strategic commitment by the government of Abu Dhabi to accelerate the development and deployment of future energy solutions.

Architects and organisations wishing to join Masdar in presenting their sustainable building or urban development concepts can particpate in the Forum free of charge by applying through the website - www.EuropeanFutureEnergyForum.com Keynote conference sessions at EFEF also include debates on Green Building and Energy Efficiency in Commericial and Public Spaces.

Green Building is a design and construction practice that promotes the economic well-being and health of the buildings' users, the community and the environment.

Buildings play a crucial role in addressing climate change and sustainable energy use.

The Forum will provide a platform for politicians, policy makers and architects to discuss how green building can, and must, become mainstream.

Business and the public sector must also take responsibility and commit to making more efficient use of energy in their buildings, not just to provide a strong corporate and social policy, but also to benefit from serious energy cost-savings at a time when financial efficiency can provide an essential competitive edge.

Some of the most successful and forward thinking companies and organisations are already making great strides towards truly carbon-neutral buildings.

Case study examples from around the world will be shown at the Forum to provoke inspiration and offer solutions that can be achieved practically and cost effectively.

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