March 21, 2025: a day to accelerate the adaptation of buildings to global warming

March 21, 2025: a site to call on experts and decision-makers to mobilize

Global Shading Day 2025 is a call to action for governments, architects, engineers, and individuals to integrate sun protection into their daily lives and long-term planning.

Beyond raising awareness of the essential role of sun protection in sustainable living, a new website launched by the European Sun Protection Association (ES-SO) allows you to explore initiatives, find expert advice and learn how to support the cause.

Indeed, www.globalshadingday.com presents participating countries, highlights local events, and invites stakeholders to join forces to advocate for more climate-responsive sun protection solutions. Stakeholders are encouraged to participate by organizing events, sharing their knowledge, and promoting the benefits of sun protection through social media and local media channels.

A growing global movement

Since its inception, Global Shading Day has grown rapidly, attracting participants from across Europe and beyond. With new countries joining the initiative each year, the movement highlights the growing importance of smarter building adaptations in combating rising temperatures and reducing energy consumption.

For Ann Van Eycken, general secretary of ES-SO: “In 2025, we aim to take Global Shading Day to new heights by engaging even more stakeholders and amplifying our message through digital platforms. The launch of globalshadingday.com marks an important milestone in our mission to create climate-fit buildings worldwide.”

For Hervé Lamy, General Delegate of the Actibaie Group and member of the ES-SO Steering Committee: "As the world faces extreme weather conditions and growing energy demand, this event is an opportunity to highlight the role of sunscreens in summer comfort and to take stock of the various products involved and their performance. It is essential that professionals and public authorities tackle this issue head-on to build sustainable housing."

Indeed, effective sun protection offers a simple but powerful solution:

• Passive cooling: By controlling heat and light, solar shading reduces the need for air conditioning, thereby lowering energy consumption and costs.
• Comfort and well-being: Good sun protection ensures a more comfortable indoor environment, minimizes glare and improves productivity.
• Sustainability: Smart sun protection systems contribute to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions, helping to achieve global climate goals.