On Thursday 30 July 2026, Luxembourg's Ministry of the Economy published the Green Paper on Healthy Construction and Renovation in Luxembourg, a reference document intended to establish a more coherent framework for improving health in buildings and indoor environmental quality.
According to the ministry, Luxembourg currently lacks common and comprehensive rules to ensure good indoor air quality and healthy indoor environments in buildings. Existing measures remain fragmented and are often implemented only after problems have emerged. While certain requirements already apply to housing, public buildings and ventilation systems in new buildings, these do not yet form part of a harmonised national framework.
The Green Paper aims to address these shortcomings by promoting a coherent and simplified approach to healthy construction, improving the prevention of health risks associated with buildings and supporting all stakeholders in adopting sustainable practices that protect the health of occupants.
The publication is divided into four main sections. It examines the impact of construction-related pollutants on health and the environment, highlighting the need for a dedicated public policy; analyses indoor air quality and the international tools developed to improve it; presents the instruments and approaches developed in Luxembourg as part of the national healthy construction strategy; and includes technical annexes containing the references, methodologies and practical guidance required to implement these measures.
Finalised in 2026, the Green Paper expands on previous work by incorporating additional factors affecting comfort and health, including artificial lighting, noise and PFAS, a group of fluorinated substances commonly referred to as "forever chemicals". It also reflects recent developments in both Luxembourg and European legislation, including the revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive.
The ministry noted that the publication draws on more than twenty years of professional experience gained through the analysis and measurement of more than 4,500 buildings across Luxembourg in relation to occupants' health. It also incorporates experience from the design and construction of around twelve "healthy" buildings, including both conventional and passive buildings, covering offices, workplaces, houses and residential developments.
The Green Paper also aligns with several existing national initiatives, including the “Lëtzebuerger Nohaltegkeets-Zertifizéierung fir Wunngebaier” (LENOZ) certification scheme, the CRTI-B sustainable construction guide and support measures available to municipalities through the Climate and Energy Fund for healthy construction projects.
Looking ahead, the ministry together with Neobuild will organise a technical seminar during the second half of 2026 for expert representatives from public and private organisations. The event will present the Green Paper and place it within the context of similar initiatives at both national and European level.
