Expert check of election manifestos: Climate targets in the building sector

Berlin, February 13, 2025 – The building sector accounts for more than 30% of CO₂ emissions in Germany. The outcome of the upcoming federal election will determine important measures for decarbonization and sustainable development in the real estate industry. Purpose Green ( purpose-green.com ), one of Germany's leading climate tech companies, has analyzed the election manifestos of the major parties. ESG expert Daniel Schreiner evaluates the approaches in terms of effectiveness and feasibility.

Three key areas of action for climate protection in the building sector

1. Sustainable housing: While some parties (Greens, SPD, Left Party) favor mandatory efficiency standards, subsidies for climate-friendly heating systems, and refurbishment incentives, the CDU/CSU and FDP favor tax incentives and less bureaucracy. The AfD and BSW largely reject government intervention and rely on voluntary measures.
   
   
2. Digitalization in the real estate sector: Most of the parties surveyed (Greens, SPD, CDU/CSU, FDP) support digital building permit applications and smart technologies to accelerate approval processes. The Left Party calls for additional government support for smaller businesses, while the AfD and BSW favor market-based solutions.
   
   
3. Climate protection and livable cities: The Greens and SPD prioritize a rapid phase-out of fossil fuels and the protection of natural CO₂ storage. The CDU/CSU and FDP are committed to technological innovations and emissions trading. The Left Party calls for far-reaching measures, including free public transport and strong support for renewable energies. The AfD and BSW reject binding climate targets.
   
   

It requires clear guidelines, speed and determination

Daniel Schreiner, real estate expert and ESG lead at Purpose Green, says: "Without clear and economically viable refurbishment measures, the building sector, with its immense CO₂ emissions, remains a challenge. Successful strategies are based on:

• Binding but affordable efficiency standards with realistic implementation deadlines.
• Individual consideration tailored to the building’s needs.
• Reducing bureaucracy to accelerate restructuring processes.

Furthermore, digitalization is essential: Without standardized, digital approval processes and automation, progress will not occur. Efficient digitalization at the interfaces between authorities and the real estate industry can significantly increase the refurbishment rate in Germany."

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Further details on the analysis can be found in the blog article (link)
 

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