Less demolition, more reuse - NICE signs HouseEurope!
April 01, 2025By signing HouseEurope!, NICE speaks out for a future where renovation and reuse are the norm. No unnecessary demolition, but preserving what is valuable - for the climate, the city and future generations.
NICE Developers has officially joined the European Citizens' Initiative campaign HouseEurope! - an ambitious movement that calls for ending the demolition culture and accelerating sustainable renovation and reuse of existing buildings in Europe.
Launched early this year, HouseEurope! aims to collect one million signatures in one year. This will require the European Commission to review outdated legislation that favors demolition over preservation.
By signing this initiative, NICE confirms its commitment to achieving climate goals, carbon reduction and affordable housing - the core values of its development vision. HouseEurope! aligns seamlessly with NICE's mission: to build future-proof cities through circular timber construction, biodiversity and social inclusion.
"Preserving and renovating existing buildings is crucial to reduce emissions and material waste. But it is also essential for strong neighborhoods and fair access to housing. HouseEurope! reflects our vision for sustainable, inclusive urban development."
Co-founder of NICE , Mark Compeer
Why HouseEurope!
The premise of HouseEurope! is clear: demolition is obsolete. Buildings are currently responsible for:
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- 36% of European CO₂ emissions
- 40% of total energy consumption
- More than 35% of all waste in the EU
Yet new construction is often rewarded, while renovation is discouraged. HouseEurope! wants to change that. The initiative advocates:
- Conservation of existing buildings, to reduce emissions and waste
- Economic incentives, such as tax breaks for renovation and reuse
- Recognition of embedded CO₂ in buildings as a valuable factor
- Affordable housing, through smart reuse instead of speculative demolition-new construction
- Strengthening local economies, through labor-driven renovation sector
- Faster realization of European climate goals, by putting reuse at center stage
Only 25% of European real estate has been renovated so far. At the current rate, we will not meet the 2050 climate goals. HouseEurope! therefore calls on citizens, professionals and policy makers to act now.
Sign with us for change!
By signing HouseEurope!, NICE joins a growing European movement for a just, sustainable and people-centered future for the built environment.
For more information about HouseEurope!, visit the website: www.houseeurope.eu
Sign this citizens' initiative with NICE: eci.ec.europa.eu
