Throughout their life cycle, buildings and infrastructure consume considerable amounts of resources. Their design, construction, maintenance, and eventual demolition require immense quantities of energy, water, materials – and money.

Moving towards a circular economy and adopting practices such as utilising locally sourced and renewable materials, as well as low-carbon, smart and nature-based solutions can provide significant savings on operational, environmental and financial costs. 

ICLEI works with local governments as well as technical, scientific and business partners to pilot innovative sustainable solutions for buildings and infrastructures, e.g. for district heating and cooling or green infrastructures. By that, we encourage both public and private entities to adopt sustainable solutions and provide advice on 'greening' urban strategies and plans.