PlasticsEurope welcomes the European Commission’s proposals for a revision of the Energy Performance of Building Directive (EPBD) and the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) which maintain the current framework of Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB) for all new buildings and establish a long term vision for the existing building stock. PlasticsEurope however stated that much more focus and priority should be placed on minimising energy consumption of existing buildings as it will not only reduce energy poverty in Europe but create jobs and have environmental benefits. 

"A deep renovation of existing buildings towards a Nearly Zero Energy Building stock is the way forward in achieving both the reviewed Energy Efficiency target and the goal of decarbonizing buildings by 2050. It would increase energy efficiency in the building sector, boost the low-carbon economy, reduce consumer’s energy bills and foster economic growth and job creation in Europe, explained Karl-H. Foerster, Executive Director of PlasticsEurope. "As buildings account for about 40% of the EU’s energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, reducing the energy usage of all buildings (both new and existing ones) is a key element for energy efficiency. The renovation of the existing building stock will benefit to both citizens and industry: it reduces the cost of the transition towards clean energy and provides several additional benefits on jobs, growth and health”, Mr. Foerster stated.

Plastics play a key part in conserving resources and reducing carbon emissions, as they offer a unique combination of environmental performance, cost-effectiveness, and durability. For example, Plastics products currently on the market have enabled energy savings equivalent to 53 million tonnes of fossil fuels.