Nature-Based Materials – As a solution for climate-neutral buildings in Germany

Germany’s construction sector is at a crossroads. With 40% of national emissions tied to the building sector, the country faces mounting pressure to decarbonize while addressing an affordable housing crisis. Unlike other EU nations, Germany lacks mandatory whole-life carbon benchmarks, and efforts to integrate nature-based materials remain marginal. Yet, with one of Europe’s largest timber stocks and untapped potential in regenerative materials like straw and hemp, a sustainable shift is possible. This paper explores the barriers, opportunities, and policy levers needed to scale nature-based construction and ensure a just transition to climate neutrality by 2045.