Cooler Buildings?

The World Green Building Council has estimated that buildings are responsible for 39% of global energy-related carbon emissions. 28% is from generating the energy needed to heat, cool and power the buildings. The other 11% is linked to materials and construction. Emissions are starting to become an issue in some planning debates (https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/nov/28/developers-challenged-over-carbon-footprint-of-new-buildings-in-uk). For example, in London's Oxford Street, Marks and Spencer want to replace their 90 year-old flagship store. M&S argue that their old building is inefficient and its replacement will be more energy-efficient. Opponents of the scheme alternatively counter, that 2.4 million trees will have to be planted to offset the development. In the City of London, there are plans to construct new Criminal Courts and offices, after demolishing an entire block off Fleet Street. Opponents of this scheme calculate the demolition/new build will generate 19,000 more tonnes of carbon dioxide, than simply refurbishing and extending the existing buildings. Some experts argue that modification/adaptation of existing properties, should become the default position for all such projects. It's certainly good that emissions (rather than arguments about the obstruction of views) are becoming live issues in planning debates.