On 9 April 2026 in Brussels, industry leaders, policymakers, and sustainability experts gathered for the Climate Positive Europe Alliance (CPEA) Annual Summit. The event brought into focus the growing role of sustainable real estate as a driver of innovation, economic competitiveness, and societal resilience across Europe.
Against a backdrop of geopolitical change, rising costs, and increasing pressure on housing systems, the Summit explored how the built environment sector can deliver long-term value while supporting Europe’s environmental and social ambitions.
Background
Europe is navigating a period of profound transformation. A shifting geopolitical landscape is accelerating the need for regional resilience, while economic pressures and social challenges – particularly housing affordability – are becoming more pronounced.
At the same time, sustainability remains both a priority and a point of debate. As organizations, developers, and investors adapt to new market realities, questions are re-emerging for the business case for sustainable investment.
Within this context, the Summit examined how the real estate and construction sectors can move beyond compliance and position themselves as key enablers of innovation, competitiveness, and inclusive growth. By aligning with recent EU policy strategies, the sector has the potential to unlock both economic and societal value at scale.
Key Learnings
The summit featured a series of discussions that addressed some of the most urgent challenges and opportunities facing Europe today:
- Rethinking Housing Affordability
A central theme of the event was the growing housing crisis across Europe. Speakers challenged conventional thinking, prompting participants to consider whether the industry is asking the right questions when addressing affordability. - Delivering a Sustainable Built Environment
Insights from industry experts highlighted the progress being made in sustainable construction and urban development. The discussion emphasized practical approaches to reducing environmental impact while maintaining economic viability. - Strengthening the Business Case for Sustainability
A key focus of the afternoon sessions was on demonstrating the financial value of sustainable buildings. Discussions explored how innovative financial instruments can help unlock private capital for renovation and development. Specific focus was also on the role of date in decision-making. Reliable, high-quality data emerged as a critical enabler for better investment and policy decisions. Participants emphasized the need for standardized metrics and improved data transparency across the sector.
What’s Next
The conversations sparked in Brussels are only the beginning. As Europe continues to navigate complex economic and social challenges, the role of sustainable real estate will remain central to shaping resilient, future-ready communities.
The Climate Positive Europe Alliance will continue to foster dialogue, share insights, and support collaboration across industries. Further events and initiatives will build on the themes explored at the summit, with a continued focus on innovation, investment, and impact.
Stay tuned for upcoming events and opportunities to engage with this growing network.
Programme & Speakers
The full programme, including session details, and presentation materials, is available below:
Welcome and setting the scene: Translating the EU Green Deal and the new EU Industrial Strategy for the construction and real estate sector
- Christine Lemaitre, CEO DGNB, Chair CPEA AISBL
A political and economic flashpoint – Why housing matters for building societal and economic resilience
An Introduction by Ursula Hartenberger, Secretary General CPEA AIBL
- Matthew Baldwin, Deputy Director-General, DG ENER, European Commission
- Raphael Lehmann, Impact Investment Manager, Erste Social Finance Holding, Austria
- Emily Bankert, Senior Researcher, BPIE, Belgium
How to deliver a sustainable built environment while increasing competitiveness
- Valentin Wiesner, Head of Group Sustainability, WIEHAG Timber Construction GmbH, Austria
- Céline Carré, Head of European Public Affairs, Saint-Gobain, Belgium
- Marion Charlier, Central Engineering Lead, ArcelorMittal Steligence® Engineering, Luxemburg
- Christophe Sykes, Director General, Construction Products Europe AISBL, Belgium
Show me the money! How to articulate and show the business case for sustainable construction and real estate investment and finance
- Eduardo Brunet Alvarez de Sotomayor, Spain Director, Green Finance Institute
- Ursula Hartenberger, Secretary General, CPEA AISBL
- Sisse Norman Canguilhem, Director of Strategy and Business Development, Rådet for Bæredygtigt Byggeri, Denmark
- Alexandra Hedesiu, Managing Partner, Head of ESG & EU Advisory Services, ErnerSave Capital, Luxemburg
Thank you to all participants for contributing to a day of insightful discussion, knowledge sharing, and cross-sector collaboration.