According to the 2015 Paris Agreement, the world must reach zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050 to prevent another climate catastrophe. Buildings are the largest source of emissions of all sectors, accounting for 40 % of global energy-related carbon emissions. However, only 3 % investments in new construction are currently ecological and efficient. Although the challenge is great, climate change is usually classified as a regulatory issue: the domain of compliance and sustainability officials, engineers and designers. For building owners, developers and REITs, "it is the responsibility of CFOs and their team to maintain financial viability and drive decisions about the company's portfolio," says Julie Emmrich, head of sustainable finance at the World Green Building Council (WorldGBC). “There needs to be close communication between finance and other stakeholders to understand the economics of future-proofing the building.” (RAMONA DZINKOWSKI)