From global evidence to local action plan: a novel building decarbonization maturity scale and roadmap for nZEB office buildings in developing contexts − case of Türkiye

Abstract

To effectively combat climate change, various policies and strategies are being developed to reduce emissions by 2050. The construction sector assumes a pivotal role in achieving decarbonization targets. It is imperative to acknowledge the potential of practices in developing countries, which can provide the critical part of carbon reduction on a global scale. In this context, Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (nZEB) are attracting global attention as a key component of sustainable construction and urban regeneration. Despite high level of energy efficiency and potential to utilize renewable energy, nZEBs have not found widespread application in developing countries. This study benefits from a systematic review of the whole-life decarbonization process of nZEB office buildings. The study evaluated policy frameworks, implementation, and potential emission reduction strategies through energy efficiency measures, material selection, and the integration of renewable energy. In response, the study proposes a structured, context-sensitive decarbonization maturity scale and roadmap to guide policy and practice in developing countries and utilized Türkiye as a case study example. The findings reveal that Türkiye’s current nZEB definition positions it at Level 2 (Emerging) on the decarbonization maturity scale. The country’s high carbon intensity signals the urgency of prioritizing demand reduction and efficiency. Despite enhancements, nZEB offices in Türkiye exhibit high carbon emissions, with operational emissions ranging from 7.5 to 35 kgCO₂-eq/m²/year and embodied carbon from 182 to 201 kgCO₂-eq/m². As a result, the maturity scale identifies leverage points offering a mechanism to benchmark progress and accelerate climate action in line with international examples approaching Level 5.