Work

Critically reviewing the 50 sociotechnical risks of building sector decarbonization: Conceptualizing risk as a proximity spiral

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Deep decarbonization of the building sector requires a widespread shift in the processes, materials, energy sources, and technologies used for homes, hospitals, factories, and other structures and infrastructure by 2050. While the goal of deep decarbonization and the broader energy transition is to minimize the potential for catastrophic climate change effects brought on by carbon emissions, the transition to new technologies and processes can introduce new, unanticipated risks. This paper critically reviews the risks associated with the decarbonization of buildings. By categorizing fifty identified risks into six themes, this study highlights the dominance of a technical–economic perspective in discussions of risk in building decarbonization and shows that the literature focuses on immediate construction and operational risks, overlooking important environmental and social risks associated with design and deconstruction of buildings. The paper concludes by proposing a conceptual sociotechnical model to account for spatially and temporally diffuse risks across the building life-cycle and stakeholder population.

Source: Energy and Buildings

DOI: 10.1016/j.enbuild.2025.116042

Authors: Erin Heinz, Benjamin K. Sovacool, Thomas Kwan, Vincent Petit

Institutions: Boston University, Schneider Electric (United States)

Language: English

Topic: Building energy efficiency and sustainability

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Sustainable cities and communities, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,260