Discover how to effectively measure and reduce the embodied carbon in your construction projects, contributing to a more sustainable future.
Embodied carbon refers to the total greenhouse gas emissions generated from the extraction, manufacture, transport, and installation of building materials, as well as construction activities, excluding operational energy use. It encompasses all emissions from the cradle to the completion of the construction process.
Calculating embodied carbon is critical for sustainable construction and achieving climate goals. By understanding and reducing these emissions, we can significantly lower the carbon footprint of our buildings, contribute to global climate targets, and promote a more sustainable construction industry.
The first step in calculating embodied carbon is to define the goal and scope of your assessment. Clarify your objectives, such as understanding the carbon footprint of a specific building or comparing different materials. Identify which life cycle stages will be included in your assessment—typically stages A1 to A5, which cover product to construction completion.
Determine the functional unit for comparison, such as per square meter of floor area, to standardise your assessment and make it easier to compare with other projects or benchmarks. This helps ensure that your results are meaningful and actionable.
Accurate data collection is essential for a reliable embodied carbon assessment. Gather detailed information on the quantities and types of materials used in your project. This can be done using construction drawings, specifications, or Building Information Modelling (BIM) models.
Ensure that the data is comprehensive and up-to-date, covering all materials from structural components to finishes. Accurate material data is the foundation of an accurate embodied carbon calculation.
Once you have collected the necessary data, source appropriate embodied carbon factors for each material. These factors can be found in databases like the Inventory of Carbon and Energy (ICE), Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), or national guidelines.
Calculate the emissions for each material by multiplying the quantity by its carbon factor. Sum these values to determine the total embodied carbon footprint of your project. It's important to include emissions from material production, transportation, and construction activities. Document all assumptions, data sources, and boundaries to ensure transparency and reproducibility of your assessment.
Digital tools such as the Embodied Carbon in Construction Calculator (EC3) can streamline the process, making it easier to calculate and benchmark embodied carbon. These tools can help you identify carbon hotspots and compare different material options.
Early integration of embodied carbon calculations into project planning allows you to set reduction targets and explore more sustainable materials and methods. By prioritising embodied carbon reduction from the outset, you can make more informed decisions that contribute to a lower carbon footprint and a sustainable future.