In 2025, the National Construction Code (NCC) will introduce embodied carbon requirements, marking a significant step towards sustainable building practices in Australia. Learn how these changes will impact the construction industry and what steps you need to take to comply.
The National Construction Code (NCC) serves as Australia's primary technical framework for building design and construction. It establishes the minimum necessary requirements for safety, health, amenity, accessibility, and sustainability in building projects across the country. The 2025 update to the NCC marks a significant shift, as it introduces embodied carbon requirements for the first time. This move is part of a broader strategy to align with global sustainability goals and to reduce the environmental impact of the construction industry.
The inclusion of embodied carbon requirements is a groundbreaking development aimed at addressing the full lifecycle emissions of buildings. By focusing on the emissions generated during the extraction, manufacture, transport, and installation of building materials, the NCC is taking a comprehensive approach to sustainability. This update reflects the growing recognition of the importance of reducing embodied carbon to achieve Australia's commitment to net zero emissions by 2050.
Embodied carbon refers to the total greenhouse gas emissions produced throughout the lifecycle of building materials, from extraction to end-of-life disposal. It is a critical aspect of building design that has often been overlooked in favour of operational carbon, which includes emissions from heating, cooling, and powering buildings. However, embodied carbon can account for up to 50% of a building's total lifecycle emissions, making it a significant factor in the overall environmental impact of construction projects.
Reducing embodied carbon is essential for creating buildings that are more resilient to climate change. It also promotes the use of low-carbon materials and encourages the adaptive reuse of existing structures. By addressing embodied carbon, the construction industry can make meaningful progress towards sustainability and contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change.
Starting in 2025, the NCC will include a voluntary pathway for commercial buildings to calculate and report embodied carbon. This initiative is designed to encourage the construction industry to adopt more sustainable practices without imposing immediate mandatory requirements. The recommended approach for calculating and reporting embodied carbon is the NABERS (National Australian Built Environment Rating System) method, which provides a standardised and reliable framework for assessment.
The NABERS method allows builders and developers to systematically evaluate the embodied carbon of their projects. This includes assessing emissions from the extraction, manufacture, transport, and installation of building materials. By providing a clear and consistent methodology, the NCC aims to facilitate the industry's transition to more sustainable building practices and lay the groundwork for future regulations.
To comply with the 2025 NCC embodied carbon requirements, builders and developers will need to take several proactive steps. First, they must assess and report embodied carbon before construction begins. This involves using life cycle assessment (LCA) tools and methodologies to quantify the emissions associated with building materials and construction processes.
Additionally, builders and developers should identify strategies to mitigate emissions. This can include selecting recycled or locally sourced materials, which typically have lower embodied carbon footprints. Engaging suppliers who can provide Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) is also crucial for obtaining accurate data on material emissions. By implementing these strategies, the construction industry can reduce its environmental impact and align with the NCC's sustainability goals.
While the 2025 NCC embodied carbon pathway is voluntary for commercial buildings, minimum embodied carbon standards are being considered for the 2028 update. These standards could extend to both residential and non-residential projects and make reporting mandatory. Therefore, it is essential for industry professionals to prepare now to ensure compliance with future regulations.
To get ahead of these changes, architects, developers, engineers, and sustainability professionals should familiarise themselves with LCA tools and methodologies. Engaging with suppliers who can provide EPDs will also be important for accurate reporting. Considering retrofit and reuse strategies can further minimise embodied carbon by extending the lifecycle of existing structures. By taking these steps, industry professionals can position themselves as leaders in sustainable building practices and be well-prepared for the evolving regulatory landscape.