The objective of this model policy is to help cities draft legislation requiring WLC assessments for major developments in the built environment. While there are a variety of interpretations of the term “major development” and as much variety in the criteria to define them, major development is defined here as any work that requires planning approval. This includes retrofits, renovation, refurbishment and new construction.

Cities adopting this policy model would take a decisive step to reduce the carbon footprint of their built environment and reach their climate-neutrality and net-zero emissions targets. By adopting this policy, cities would also meet some of the leadership commitments of the C40 Cities Accelerators: Net Zero Buildings Accelerator and Clean Construction Accelerator.