OVAM | Sustainable building materials are key to reducing CO₂ emissions

A new study by Flemish Institute for Technological Research, commissioned by the Circular Economy Support Center (CE Center) of Flanders Circular and OVAM, highlights the potential of sustainable construction materials to significantly cut CO₂ emissions and the environmental impact of buildings. One way to encourage their use is through the M Level, a maximum environmental impact threshold for buildings, calculated based on the materials used. The study illustrates that applying the M Level to both new constructions and renovations can play a crucial role in meeting climate goals. 

The research models different scenarios, comparing current practices with strategies that prioritise renovation and integrate the M Level. The findings show that implementing this threshold (by selecting lower-impact building materials) can lead to substantial environmental benefits at both regional and global levels.  

Source: https://ovam.vlaanderen.be (in Dutch)