New Emission Requirements for Large Buildings Begin

New BEUDO Tools and Resources

As new requirements take effect,

the City is rolling out features that make tracking and compliance simpler.

• Visit the City's new BEUDO page

• Learn BEUDO history with the BEUDO Development page

• Use our new tool to look up and map BEUDO covered properties

• Explore a new Story Map with analysis of BEUDO data

• Sign up for the Building Owner Portal for Covered Properties

After years of research, planning, and community engagement, the City of Cambridge is preparing for new greenhouse gas emissions reduction requirements for large buildings to take effect.

Under the Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance (BEUDO), certain properties must reduce their emissions compared to a “baseline,” which, in most cases, is the property’s average greenhouse gas emissions for the years 2018-2019.

Non-residential properties with 100,000 square feet or more must reduce their emissions by 20 percent in the first compliance period, beginning in 2026 and ending in 2029. The goal is to reach net zero emissions by 2035.

Non-residential properties between 25,000 and 99,999 square feet must keep their emissions from exceeding their baseline in the first compliance period. Beginning in 2030, they'll have to start reducing their emissions, with a goal of reaching net zero by 2050.

Residential properties do NOT have emissions reduction requirements under BEUDO.

"We’re grateful to the many building owners who are stepping up to help Cambridge meet our shared climate goals. Their leadership is critical to reducing the city's emissions and protecting our shared future," said Climate Chief Julie Wormser.

The Office of Sustainability is mailing comprehensive information and guidance to all BEUDO-covered property owners. Additional support includes online information sessions throughout the fall and winter. You can also email BEUDO@cambridgema.gov for property-specific answers.

"We know these new requirements are a big, important step, and we’re committed to making the process as clear and supportive as possible," said Nikhil Nadkarni, Cambridge’s Senior Climate Program Manager. "Our team is here to guide building owners every step of the way."

Join the Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance (BEUDO) Review Board

The City of Cambridge is seeking nine members to serve on its newly established Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance (BEUDO) Review Board.

Beginning in early 2026, the Board will play a pivotal role in advancing Cambridge’s commitment to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 by helping ensure that BEUDO is implemented fairly, consistently, and effectively.

The Review Board will evaluate applications from property owners seeking exemptions, deferrals, or alternative ways to comply. Members will also review and approve detailed regulation language.

“BEUDO is one of the most important tools Cambridge has to address climate change,” said Susanne Rasmussen, Director of Environmental and Transportation Planning. “This new Review Board will help ensure the ordinance delivers meaningful emissions reductions while reflecting the values of equity and community collaboration."

Board members will be appointed by the City Manager and confirmed by the City Council for three-year terms. While Cambridge residency is not required, applicants should have a strong understanding of issues related to building decarbonization in the City. Of the nine members selected, two will represent climate advocacy perspectives, two will come from the real estate or business sectors, and five will be technical experts.

Applications are due October 27, 2025. Learn more about the Board here.

Apply to be a BEUDO Review Board member

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