Economy Minister Dr has launched a foresight
report which outlines recommendations to move towards the
decarbonisation of Northern Ireland's built environment by 2050.
The Decarbonisation of the NI Built Environment report,
commissioned by Matrix NI on behalf of the Department for the
Economy, sets out strategies to reduce both operational and
embodied carbon emissions from homes, workplaces, and
infrastructure. The report highlights the importance of
retrofitting existing buildings, increasing energy efficiency
standards, and investing in skills to support low-carbon
technologies and construction methods.
The Minister said: “This report provides clear
evidence of the economic, environmental, and social benefits of
decarbonising our built environment. It aligns with the
Department's priority to deliver a greener, more prosperous
society. A clear focus on improving energy efficiency, skills
development, and innovation, will foster the creation of good
jobs, improve energy security, and enhance the quality of life
for our citizens. I urge all sectors to work together to achieve
our net zero ambitions.”
Dr Michael Shaw, a Matrix NI panel member also chaired the
steering group of the foresight report and
commented: “Northern Ireland has the
potential to harness its unique strengths, leverage its
geographic position, and lead by example in the global effort to
combat climate change. Together, we can transform our built
environment into a sustainable legacy for future generations.”
Full report downloadable from: https://matrixni.org/matrix-reports/
Notes to editors:
2. Matrix is an industry led panel advising government and
informing academia and industry on the commercial exploitation of
R&D and science and technology.
3. The report takes a 25-year view and identifies strategies,
technologies and case studies that could help Northern Ireland
achieve its net zero target.
4. The report explores four scenarios highlighting how political
and economic conditions will influence the pace and success of
decarbonisation.
5. Key recommendations in the report include:
- Capturing readily addressable opportunities through improved
energy efficiency standards and whole life carbon assessments;
- Reframing decarbonisation as a driver of economic growth,
energy security and clean air;
- Accelerating domestic retrofitting and creative reuse of
existing buildings;
- Developing long-term frameworks that withstand political and
economic uncertainty;
- Investing in skills pathways to address shortages in
construction, retrofitting and new energy systems.
