13 – we get 45 °C in the summer, we need buildings that tolerate this heat. We must ensure safe construction sites and zero emission machinery. Cities can also lead by example. You cannot ask the private sector to take action if you’re not taking action yourself. You need to use public procurement powers to develop the right market and make space for innovative technologies to develop. What’s the best way to empower cities to adopt sustainable practices? I.S.: They need to be equipped with the right information to make sustainable decisions. It’s important to dispel misconceptions – for example, that fossil fuels are cheaper, more secure, job creating, and provide economic development. In construction, retrofits have bigger job potential than fossil fuel jobs, as well as health benefits, with improved indoor and outdoor air. Renewables are cheaper and less volatile in terms of price than fossil fuels. So a transition to a renewable energy system delivers economic gains, clean air, green jobs, and secure energy. We need to give this data to our political leaders and dispel the myths, or we can’t move forward with sustainable construction. How can cities work with industry to deliver net zero roadmaps while still meeting demand for increased housing, urban services, and infrastructure? I.S.: Collaboration is key. We need cities to join with industry to test solutions on municipal buildings before applying them to the private sector. Using an inclusive approach for industry, workers, and the community, this collaboration can help deliver the sustainable construction we all want.
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