The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD): A Game-Changer for European Building Sustainability With Stephen Barrett of the IGBC

Is Europe on the cusp of a green building revolution? Find out in this podcast episode. In this episode of Constructive Voices, we’re joined by Stephen Barrett, the driving force behind Ireland’s transition to whole-life carbon assessment in construction. (Bookmark this page for the release date of 29th July) As Programme Manager at the Irish Green Building Council (IGBC), Stephen is at the heart of implementing the updated Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD)—a policy shift that’s set to transform how we design, construct, and assess buildings across Europe. Whether you’re a building designer, material supplier, or policy watcher, this is the insight you need to prepare for what’s coming. "Don’t worry about the result—just begin assessing. It’s the act of questioning your design that starts to change behaviour." — Stephen Barrett, IGBC Who Should Listen? Architects, engineers & building designers Construction managers & BIM specialists Sustainability officers & ESG consultants Policy makers & local authorities Students and educators in built environment studies Key Topics Covered What the updated EPBD really means—and why it’s a "starting gun" for industry change. Why lifecycle carbon is overtaking energy as the key metric in building performance. The vital role of BIM (Building Information Modelling) in meeting new EU carbon targets. Open source vs proprietary BIM platforms: How to start now, without breaking the bank. Lessons from the Nordics, and how Ireland’s ahead of the curve with its prototype methodology. What the construction industry must do before 2030 to stay compliant—and competitive. Why your old tools won’t cut it anymore—and how new platforms like One Click LCA are changing the game. Simple advice for professionals: Start assessing now—don’t fear the results. "If we design with carbon in mind from the beginning, we won’t just build better—we’ll change the entire supply chain behind construction." — Stephen Barrett, IGBC About Stephen Barrett Stephen joined the Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) in 2020 and is currently Programme Manager for Whole Life Carbon initiatives. He has contributed to several key European and national projects, including Level(s) – the EU framework for measuring the environmental performance of buildings – and the #BuildingLife campaign, aimed at aligning public policy and industry practices with Whole Life Carbon (WLC) goals. Stephen led the UPFRONTCO2 and INDICATE projects and is currently managing IMPLEMENT, which focuses on mainstreaming WLC approaches. He holds an MSc in Sustainability and Adaptation in the Built Environment and brings a strong background in d...