Katie Clemence-Jackson is now CEO of Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard Limited (NZCBS Ltd), the not-for-profit overseeing the UK’s national net zero carbon building standard.
A new era for net-zero buildings
The Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard is a groundbreaking initiative, collaboratively developed by major industry bodies including BBP, BRE, Carbon Trust, CIBSE, IStructE, LETI, RIBA, RICS, and the UKGBC. It offers a unified and science-based framework that sets out clear criteria for net-zero carbon buildings in design, construction, and operation, vital for the UK’s progress toward its 2050 climate goals.
The Pilot Version of the Standard, launched in September 2024, has already seen uptake by over 200 real-world projects. These projects are helping to rigorously test the Standard’s methodologies and ensure its relevance and practicality across diverse sectors of the UK property market.
Building the Infrastructure for Compliance
To strengthen its structure and support widespread adoption, NZCBS Ltd issued a Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) and an open tender in May 2025 for the appointment of a Verification Administrator. This step is key to enabling building owners and occupiers to formally demonstrate compliance with the Standard once Version 1 is officially published at the end of 2025.
David Partridge, Chair of the Standard’s Governance Board, emphasised the importance of this phase: “It is hugely important that we put in place a robust and long-lasting structure to take the Standard forward, which has involved a truly radical collaboration between so many members of the UK real estate industry over the last three years.”
He also highlighted Katie Clemence-Jackson’s appointment as a powerful signal of intent for the Standard’s future:
“Her job will be to set up the executive secretariat that will run NZCBS Ltd and ensure that its future is secure.”
A Proven Leader in Net Zero Innovation
Katie Clemence-Jackson brings a wealth of expertise to the CEO role. A Chartered Engineer and member of CIBSE, she has long been a driving force in sustainable building design and strategy. She currently chairs CIBSE’s Sustainability Special Interest Group and previously led the Standard’s Technical Steering Group, overseeing the creation of its Pilot Version.
In response to her appointment, Clemence-Jackson said: “Providing meaningful, measurable decarbonisation in the UK built environment sector is something about which I care deeply. In my new role as CEO, I will take the lead on continuing the Standard’s trailblazing trajectory, and building the firm foundations and connections it needs to continue making a huge impact across the country.”
Setting the Standard for a Sustainable Future
The Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard is expected to become the go-to framework for validating decarbonisation efforts across the UK real estate industry. With Clemence-Jackson at the helm, the Standard is poised not only to maintain momentum but to significantly shape the sector’s journey to net-zero emissions.
Her leadership marks a new chapter for the Standard—one grounded in technical integrity, collaboration, and actionable climate solutions.
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