As the nation strives for carbon neutrality by 2050, the role of the building sector is both critical and often overlooked. As clients, manufacturers, designers, engineers, constructors and operators, we know that the most cost-effective carbon saving solutions are those in the built environment, and that those solutions can dramatically improve quality of life and address longstanding inequities. We also know that “environmental surfing” for daylight, fresh air, passive heating, and natural cooling is key for our sustained health and the health of the planet. Vivian Loftness, the Paul Mellon Chair in Architecture at Carnegie Mellon University and National Academy of Science commission member, will address the actions we can take to ensure that our collective voices are heard as we strive for a carbon smart future.