A global comparison of net-zero carbon building practices

Despite extensive research on individual net-zero carbon building (NZCB) practices, prior studies fail to systematically map global adoption patterns across diverse regulatory and market contexts. This study addresses this gap by investigating current NZCB practices worldwide. A comprehensive list of global NZCB practices, with associated enablers and barriers, was first identified through a literature review. A global survey was then employed to explore the practical adoption of the practices. Six countries/ regions participated in the survey: Australia, New Zealand, Italy, South Africa, Sri Lanka and Hong Kong. Survey data were analysed using descriptive and frequency analysis. The study identifies three empirically derived adoption patterns: common, varied, and low across countries/regions. Use of solar photovoltaics, energy-efficient HVAC and modular systems were found to be commonly adopted, while advanced technologies like carbon-infused materials were least adopted. Lack of direct financial incentives emerged as the key global barrier, while robust government policies were the main enabler for NZCB adoption worldwide. These findings provide empirical benchmarks for cross-country NZCB adoption and actionable strategies to accelerate low-adoption practices globally.