7R Glossary
Zero-emission / net-zero building (net-zero carbon building)
What should you know?
The push toward building net-zero facilities is the real estate market’s response to the European Green Deal guidelines and the need to decarbonize the industrial sector. Traditionally, warehouses have relied on burning fossil fuels (such as natural gas) for heating. In zero-emission buildings, these sources are completely eliminated in favor of heat pumps, advanced heat recovery systems, and intelligent building management systems (BMS).
A key element of the definition is the distinction between a net-zero from a carbon-neutral. A truly zero-emission building is based on an actual reduction in energy consumption and the elimination of emissions at the source, rather than merely on accounting for emissions through the purchase of external certificates and carbon offsets.
Zero-Emission / Net-Zero Buildings in Practice: 7R
At 7R, we are implementing a decarbonization strategy aimed at providing operationally carbon-neutral warehouse parks. In newly designed warehouses, we are eliminating gas systems and installing heat pumps powered by green electricity from rooftop solar panels. We use enhanced thermal insulation for exterior walls and facades to reduce heat transfer, as well as solutions that minimize the carbon footprint embedded during the construction phase.
Net-Zero Buildings and Carbon Neutrality
| Criterion | Net-Zero Carbon Building | Carbon-Neutral Building |
|---|---|---|
| Main mechanism | Maximum physical reduction in energy demand | Emissions are often offset by purchasing carbon offsets |
| Energy Sources | Only local renewable energy sources or green energy from the grid | Permitted fossil fuels for parallel offsetting |
| Fuels on the premises | A complete absence of fossil fuels (excluding natural gas and coal) | Traditional gas boilers may be used |
| ESG Compliance | The Highest Standard for Investment Funds | A transitional level, open to accusations of greenwashing |
Frequently Asked Questions
In addition to drastically reducing heating and electricity bills, a net-zero warehouse allows tenants to report zero direct emissions (Scope 1 and Scope 2) in their annual ESG non-financial reports (in accordance with the CSRD). This makes it easier to secure contracts from corporate clients with stringent environmental requirements.
Yes. Modern industrial heat pump technology (air-source or ground-source), combined with proper airtightness of the warehouse and air recovery, makes it possible to effectively maintain the required temperature inside the warehouse even when outdoor temperatures drop below -20°C, without the need for a gas-fired boiler room.