Issue link: https://resources.tangoanalytics.com/i/1538218
Copyright © 2025 Tango. All rights reserved. www.tangoanalytics.com Net Zero in the Built Environment From Strategy to Execution at the Building Level Setting targets is only the first step. Executing a net zero strategy in the built environment requires a structured, data-informed approach that spans from emissions baselining to capital planning, implementation, and progress tracking. For building owners, operators, tenants, and investors, the challenge is translating climate goals into tangible building and site-level actions. 6 Step 1: Establish a Baseline and Benchmark Performance Execution begins with understanding your current state. A credible emissions baseline should include Scope 1 (on-site fuel use), Scope 2 (purchased energy), and all material Scope 3 categories (leased assets, supply chain activities, tenant energy use, etc.). Data collection should go beyond utility bills by pulling from building automation systems, submetering, vendor activity, and asset- level metadata (e.g., HVAC age, floor area, occupancy rates). Organizations should also benchmark energy use intensity (EUI), emissions intensity (e.g., kg CO₂ per square foot), and performance against peers or industry standards such as ENERGY STAR or LEED. This helps prioritize which buildings or systems represent the most cost-effective decarbonization opportunities. Step 2: Define and Set Net Zero- Aligned Targets Once baseline data is in place, near- and long-term targets can be established using sector-specific pathways from SBTi, CRREM, or other accepted methodologies. For operational emissions, most organizations start by aligning building-level targets with portfolio-level climate goals, focusing first on Scope 1 and 2. Target-setting should be supported by scenario modeling: What does a 50% reduction in operational emissions look like by 2030 across your top 10 buildings? How much electrification is required? What assumptions are built into your forecast (e.g., tenant growth, rate changes, policy shifts)? The goal is to move from abstract targets to implementation-ready decarbonization roadmaps. Check out SBTi's Building Target-Setting Tool to discover what data you need to set SBTi goals.