Examinando por Autor "Soimu, Oxana"

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    From experts to citizens: co-creating neighbourhood coziness metrics
    (Elsevier B.V., 2025-04) Ferrón, Leandro Martín; Borges Hernández, Cruz E.; Mugarra Elorriaga, Aitziber; Soimu, Oxana
    Current urban sustainability metrics often overlook local community preferences. The shortcomings of existing assessment tools stem not only from overarching frameworks but also from limitations in their key performance indicators. This study introduces a novel methodological approach integrating multidimensional indicators spanning environmental, social, and economic dimensions, culminating in the Community Coziness Rating. Structured expert discussions and a comprehensive survey across multiple European nations targeted non-expert residents to ensure a representative cross-section of perspectives. Survey participants evaluated indicators categorized and weighted for technical and community significance. Findings show building energy efficiency, air quality, and proximity to essential services were most critical, while technical metrics like smart energy management systems and advanced electric vehicle infrastructure ranked lower, highlighting a disconnect between expert prioritization and public perception. The proposed framework incorporates participatory action dynamics, enabling more nuanced, context-specific neighborhood evaluations that reflect localized needs and preferences
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    The future of EPCs: data, policy, and public perception in the race for energy efficiency
    (Elsevier B.V., 2025-03) Mugarra Elorriaga, Aitziber; Borges Hernández, Cruz E.; Ferrón, Leandro Martín; Soimu, Oxana
    Amidst the pressing concern about climate change, the construction sector has been identified as one of the main energy consumers in Europe, which also positions it as one of the sectors with the greatest potential for efficiency improvements. In response to this, the European Union established the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) system, with the aim of boosting transparency and encouraging sustainable renovations. However, the results have not been as expected. Some of the causes of this are poor data quality, limited public awareness and inadequate legislation, which together undermine trust in the certification process. In addition, concerns about the possible exclusion of low-income households have sparked debates about the financial burdens and possible rent increases following energy efficiency improvements. This article presents insights from a qualitative study of various stakeholders, including public agencies, technical experts and real estate professionals, examining prevailing perceptions of EPC design, implementation and utility. Key findings reveal that mandatory policies drive adoption, but administrative complexities and inconsistent metrics erode public trust. Furthermore, the gap between specialist and non-specialist audiences prevents the certificate from playing a role in motivating behaviour change. The new version of the European Commission's Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) introduces standardised templates and databases. Added to this, stakeholder feedback highlights the need for public education, accurate energy data and tailored financial mechanisms. This study concludes that to refine EPC policies, integrated and holistic frameworks are needed that address socio-economic risks, foster equity and accelerate Europe's transition to low-carbon housing