Achieving decarbonization and resilience in the built environment

C40 Cities & Consulate of Denmark


The built environment currently accounts for 23–40% of global urban emissions and is associated with significant climate risks, such as extreme heat and flooding in cities. As urban populations grow, the demand for new buildings, public spaces, and infrastructure will only grow: an estimated 60% of the built environment that will exist in 2050 remains undeveloped. For this reason, the green transition is crucial. In this session, we will bring together policymakers, architects, and researchers to explore practical ways to achieve this goal. With real-world case studies and global expertise, this session will demonstrate how transforming the built environment toward sustainability and resilience is a vital opportunity for cities around the world.

Discussion table with:

Elizabeth France, Municipal Secretary of Urban Planning and Licensing of Sao Paulo

Maria Teresa Fedeli, Executive Secretary of the Water Sources Program (SEHAB)

Fabio M. Espindola, Public Policy and Government Management Analyst at SECLIMA – São Paulo

Denise Duarte, Full Professor at FAU-USP

Riciane Pombo, Architect in the architecture office Guajava

Marcella Arruda, president of the institute A Cidade Precisa de Você and co-founder of the Brazilian Network of Collaborative Urbanism

Moderation:

Birgitte Krohn, City Councilor – Consulate of Denmark in Brazil

Henrique Goes, Sustainable Construction Manager at C40 Cities

Free

Registration:

Registrations must be made here.
Registration will be open until the start of the activity, on site, as long as there are spaces available.

We thank everyone who participated and visited the 14th São Paulo International Architecture Biennial, from September 18 to October 19, 2025

NOTE OF CONDOLENCE

With deep sorrow, the Brazilian Institute of Architects – São Paulo Department (IABsp) mourns the passing of architect and landscape architect Kongjian Yu, a global leader in ecological urbanism, and the members of his team who accompanied him, tragically killed during the filming of a documentary. The institute is honored to have had him as a participant in the 14th São Paulo International Architecture Biennial, where his transformative vision strengthened the dialogue between global challenges and local realities. IABsp emphasizes that Yu's contribution, which transcends borders, will remain an inspiration for generations and expresses its condolences to China, to the families of all the deceased, to his friends, and to all those impacted by his genius and dedication. Read the full note here.