The property sector is now at the heart of ecological concerns, as it is a major energy consumer and emitter of greenhouse gases. Faced with the urgency of climate change, the ecological transition of the property sector has become a national and European priority, involving many players and giving rise to new standards, practices and innovations.
Environmental impact of the property sector
- The building industry accounts for almost 44% of energy consumption and around 25% of greenhouse gas emissions in France.
- The construction, operation and renovation of buildings consume large quantities of natural resources (energy, water, materials) and generate a great deal of waste, while contributing to the artificialization of land and the loss of biodiversity.
- Worldwide, buildings are responsible for 39% of energy-related CO2 emissions and consume almost 40% of global energy.
Ecological transition in the property sector
- Energy renovation: One of the main levers is the renovation of existing buildings, which are often poorly insulated and consume a lot of energy. France is committed to reducing the energy consumption of existing buildings by 38% by 2030.
- Sustainable construction: New buildings must comply with strict environmental standards, such as the RT 2012 thermal regulations and the RE 2020 environmental regulations, which impose requirements in terms of insulation, energy consumption and the use of renewable energies.
- Combating the artificialization of land: The Climate and Resilience Act aims for “zero net artificialization” of land by 2050, encouraging urban densification, urban recycling and brownfield redevelopment rather than urban sprawl, which destroys biodiversity.
Ecological standards, labels and certifications
- Bâtiment Basse Consommation (BBC): Label guaranteeing very low energy consumption, thanks to better insulation and the use of renewable energies.
- NF Haute Qualité Environnementale (HQE ): Certification that assesses the sustainability of new buildings and the quality of life offered to their occupants, by integrating ecological, societal and economic criteria.
- Diagnostic de Performance Énergétique (DPE) (Energy Performance Diagnosis ): A compulsory document when selling or letting a property, providing information on the property’s energy consumption and its impact in terms of CO2 emissions.
What are the best practices for renovating an old home in an environmentally-friendly way?
Renovating an old home in an environmentally-friendly way means limiting the environmental impact at every stage of the project, while improving the comfort and energy performance of the building. Here are the main recommended practices, taken from the latest specialist resources:
1. Carry out a preliminary diagnosis
- Start by carrying out an energy and structural assessment of your home to identify weak points (insulation, heating, ventilation, etc.) and avoid unnecessary work.
2. Favour high-performance, natural insulation
- Insulation is the priority when it comes to reducing energy loss, especially in older buildings that are often poorly insulated.
- Use natural, bio-sourced insulation such as wood fibre, hemp wool, cork or cellulose wadding, which are effective and renewable.
- Natural coatings (lime, hemp) also help to regulate heat and humidity.
3. Choosing ecological and local materials
- Opt for natural, recycled or recyclable materials that are minimally processed and produced locally to limit the carbon footprint associated with transport.
- Choose certified wood (FSC, PEFC), bamboo, raw earth bricks, stone, clay, cob or low-carbon concrete.
4. Reuse and recycle
- Keep and make the most of existing elements in good condition (joinery, cladding, etc.) to limit the production of waste and grey energy.
- Encourage the re-use of materials and second-hand or recycled furniture.
5. Improving energy systems
- Install heating and hot water systems that use renewable energy: heat pumps, wood-burning stoves, pellet boilers, solar water heaters.
- Consider self-consumption with photovoltaic solar panels to reduce your dependence on fossil fuels.
6. Optimising ventilation
- Good ventilation (dual-flow CMV, natural ventilation) is essential to guarantee indoor air quality and prevent damp, especially in older homes.
7. Adopt a bioclimatic approach
- Take advantage of the building’s orientation, exposure and environment to maximise solar gain and limit heating and cooling requirements.
8. Reduce the use of chemicals
- Use paints, glues and varnishes that contain no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to protect air quality and the health of occupants.
9. Think global and call on professionals
- Take a holistic approach to renovation to avoid incompatibility between old and new materials, and maximise the overall performance of the home.
- Call on professionals with experience in ecological renovation to guarantee the consistency and quality of the work.
10. Benefit from financial aid
- Find out about the grants and subsidies available for energy and ecological renovation, which can help reduce the cost of the work.
Advantages of green property
- Reduced energy costs: Better insulation and the use of sustainable materials mean lower energy bills for occupants and improved living comfort.
- Increased value for money: Green homes generally sell for more money and attract more environmentally conscious investors.
- Contributing to the energy transition: Investing in sustainable property means playing an active part in combating climate change and preserving natural resources.
Conclusion: Sustainable property, a collective imperative
The ecological transition of the property sector is no longer an option, but a necessity if we are to meet the challenges of climate change, regulations and society as a whole. Older homes, which are veritable energy wrecks, represent both a colossal challenge and an opportunity for transformation. Through well-designed renovations – combining bio-sourced materials, renewable energy systems and a bioclimatic approach – these buildings can become models of sobriety and resilience.
Our agency plays a pivotal role in this transformation: strategic advice, technical mediation and financial support are now part of our wider remit. By bringing together homeowners, certified craftsmen and public institutions, we are accelerating the adoption of sustainable practices while enhancing the value of existing heritage.
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Contact Tanit Immobilier and let’s work together towards a greener future.
