The urgency of climate change mitigation requires significant changes in building energy codes (BECs) globally, as buildings contribute to 37% of global energy-related emissions. According to the World Bank, only 88 countries have adopted mandatory BECs in at least one city, and 55% of these codes have not been updated since 2015, compromising their effectiveness. With most new floor area growth expected in developing economies, there’s a critical need for updated and stringent energy codes. Here’s a roadmap for both developing and developed countries to achieve carbon neutrality through robust global energy code standards.