HouseEurope is an advocacy group promoting sustainable renovation practices in the EU, focusing on reusing existing buildings and influencing policies for accessible, affordable, and socially responsible renovations.
HouseEurope is an advocacy group focused on promoting sustainable and social renovation practices in the European Union. The organisation argues that the demolition of existing buildings is an outdated practice and instead advocates for the renovation and reuse of these structures. Their mission is to make renovation more accessible, affordable, and socially responsible through changes in EU laws. HouseEurope!'s approach is built around three key pillars: tax reductions for renovation works and reused materials, fair rules to assess the risks and potentials of existing buildings, and new values for the embedded CO2 in existing structures. This approach is encapsulated in their demand for a "Right to Reuse" for existing buildings. The organisation engages in public events and discussions to raise awareness and garner support for their cause. For example, they hosted an assembly in Berlin on October 17, featuring architects Lacaton & Vassal, Barbara Metz, and Ruth Schagemann, to discuss how to renovate and transform the construction sector. HouseEurope!'s goal is to influence EU policy to support more sustainable and socially responsible renovation practices. They encourage individuals to support their initiative by signing up for their newsletter and participating in their events. By advocating for fair EU laws, HouseEurope aims to make a significant impact on how Europe approaches building renovation and reuse.