An LCA evaluation by Priopta looks at the embodied carbon, or Global Warming Potential (GWP), of the materials used in a building.
The challenge we face is overwhelming and complex. Our industry?s emissions currently account for 40 percent of total global annual CO2 emissions. Of that, a third is attributable to embodied carbon. The attention we have paid to energy efficiency?via improved insulation properties, renewable energies, and passive systems?has led to significant operational improvements in the last two decades. But over that same period of time, we?ve put half of all historical CO2 into the atmosphere. This is in part due to the fact that we?ve been largely focused on only part of the problem.
To meet the 2030 Challenge, we need to not only achieve net zero operational carbon, but also radically reduce embodied carbon. We need to face new questions: How do we now choose between two different window options, two wall assemblies, two concrete mixes, two structural systems" Assuming both options perform and cost the same, does either contain materials that were sustainably sourced, processed and transported" Does either option have half the carbon footprint of the industry norm" What is the norm" There are many facets to the carbon profile of materials?the Carbon Smart Materials Palette website by Architecture 2030 is among the best resources for further research. But architects often ask me for a basic primer on the main materials used in build...