Nearly zero energy buildings (NZEBs) constitute one of the main pillars of the energy policy of European Union (EU). Greece has recently established a clear definition for NZEB, however the interdependence between cost-optimality and the energy performance of NZEB has not been adequately studied. The present work includes a cost effectiveness analysis among different energy efficiency interventions for the existing residential Greek building stock.

To address challenges associated with climate resilience, health and well-being in urban areas, current policy platforms are shifting their focus from ecosystem-based to nature-based solutions (NBS), broadly defined as solutions to societal challenges that are inspired and supported by nature. NBS result in the provision of co-benefits, such as the improvement of place attractiveness, of health and quality of life, and creation of green jobs.

Sustainable development in the building sector requires the integration of energy efficiency and renewable energy utilization in buildings. In recent years, the concept of net zero energy buildings (NZEBs) has become a potential plausible solution to improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption in buildings. To achieve an NZEB goal, building systems and design strategies must be integrated and optimized based on local climatic conditions. This paper provides a comprehensive review of NZEBs and their current development in hot and humid regions.