Net zero adaptation: A review of built environment sustainability assessment tools

In the context of the built environment there has been a greater focus of research and policy on climate mitigation efforts, compared with adaptation. Buildings designed today will likely need upgrades within their lifetime if adaptation is not adequately considered.

Is there an international tools that assess both the adaptation to climate change and mitigation of green house emissions? There is currently no widely adopted system for this. This study  reviews three established assessment tools: BREEAM, Green Star and LEED. It demonstrates how much adaptation and mitigation are accounted for with the tools.

The analysis shows that the integration of adaptation considerations is limited and in most cases not mandatory. To ensure that asset investment considers climate-related impacts in a holistic manner, the article suggests that better mechanisms are required.