In a pivotal moment for the UK’s built environment sector, the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard’s (the standard’s) pilot version was launched in September 2024, to help the industry assess whether buildings are genuinely net zero carbon and aligned with national climate goals.
It is now undergoing pilot testing with 228 participating projects from the UK. The standard provides a science-based framework and sets clear requirements to cut emissions from new and existing buildings. Crucially, it requires actual post-occupancy performance data, rather than relying solely on modelled outcomes.
As the standard moves through its pilot phase, stakeholders across the industry are applying it to live projects and offering feedback that will help shape its first full release at the end of 2025. Though voluntary, it is expected to become a critical benchmark for achieving genuine net zero performance in the built environment.
The pilot
Launched in early 2025, the pilot was established to test the standard’s real-world application and gather feedback on its implementation across various sectors and building classifications. Key objectives are to: assess useability; evaluate clarity, focusing on comprehensibility and consistency across the 13 sectors; understand market preparedness; and gather feedback, particularly around data availability to meet the requirements of the standard.
With 228 projects and 134 building owners involved, the pilot spans all major UK regions and covers a wide array of building types, classifications and development stages, providing a comprehensive test bed for evaluating the standard under real-world conditions.
Participating projects cover all 13 sectors included in the standard. The pilot includes projects at various stages, with 42% in the design phase – providing early feedback on applying the standard’s criteria; 28% under construction; 6% at practical completion, testing its integration into live delivery; and 24% in use, offering insights into achievability.
It spans a wide range of building classifications, with 57% new builds, 31% retrofits and 12% existing. Projects also include special cases, such as high-rises and heritage buildings, and those that cross typologies, such as mixed-use developments and regeneration schemes.
National coverage
Geographically, the pilot has strong national coverage, with projects across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland concentrated in cities such as London, Manchester, Glasgow, and Birmingham. Regional towns and rural areas are also well represented.
This diverse participation ensures that the feedback gathered captures the full spectrum of technical, regulatory and operational contexts across the UK, strengthening the standard’s credibility and relevance as it approaches full publication.
The pilot uses a multilayered engagement strategy to support collaboration and gather detailed feedback. Key components include: technical surveys to assess application of the standard and identify common challenges; technical forums for expert-led deep dives into emerging issues; and peer-to-peer groups that enable sector-based knowledge sharing and collective input.
Together, these engagement mechanisms create a robust feedback loop, grounded in lived experience and expert discussion, which will inform the development of a more effective and actionable Version 1 of the standard.
Although the pilot does not offer formal verification, it provides participants with opportunities to connect with peers, access expert guidance, test the submission proforma in real contexts, and directly contribute to refining the standard ahead of the release of Version 1.
Looking ahead
By the end of 2025, the feedback from the pilot will culminate in the release of Version 1 of the standard. This will incorporate lessons learned from the pilot, ensuring clarity, useability and ambition are balanced appropriately. Ultimately, the standard and its development process underscore a broader transformation within the construction and property sectors – one that embraces collaboration, data-driven decision-making and urgent climate responsibility.
As the UK seeks to decarbonise its building stock, the pilot is more than a test – it’s a blueprint for sector-wide climate action.
The standard is developed by BBP, BRE, The Carbon Trust, CIBSE, IStructE, LETI, RIBA, RICS and UKGBC, alongside more than 1,000 organisations and more than 350 experts.
About the author
Amrita Dasgupta Shekhar is head of ESG and net zero at Greengage and the technical manager of the UK NZCBS pilot testing team
