There’s no single outcome that defines progress at COP, but rather a series of advances in state policies and commitments, UNFCCC programs, and the substance of the bigger conversations. Here's a snapshot of how we observed built buildings showing up at COP30, including:

• Action Agenda: New COP30 framework mobilizes voluntary action, with dedicated pathways focused on both sustainable, resilient buildings and cultural heritage.

• Retrofit & Circularity: Strong emphasis on renovation, resource efficiency, and reuse of materials to cut emissions and waste.

• Space for Heritage: Existing and historic buildings recognized for their climate value, with traditional knowledge and local practices highlighted as solutions.

• Adaptation Funding: Commitments on global finance for climate adaptation, supporting upgrades and resilience for existing buildings.

Climate Week NYC was an intense and hopeful gathering of people sharing knowledge, connecting, and scheming. People are embracing the need to focus more on reusing the buildings we already have as a critical gap in climate strategy.  

Built Buildings Lab, represented by Executive Director Lori Ferriss and Research Director Billie Faircloth, had the privilege of participating in four incredible events: 

While it is easy to understand the natural world as a gift, it’s harder to see buildings as gifts, but the materials are made from are gifts from the earth, the skill and craft that went into their construction are gifts from the people who built them. What would change if we treated buildings as gifts? We treat gifts with care; maybe we would start caring for them.