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Reducing Embodied Carbon Emissions: How Low Can We Go?
Radically reducing embodied carbon emissions in Australia’ s buildings
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Research Project
Challenge
Buildings are responsible for 37 % of all greenhouse gas emissions globally. For any new building, more than half of its emissions will be caused by its materials – this is called‘ embodied carbon’. There is an urgent need to develop new building designs that meet the needs of our growing population, while also reducing embodied carbon.
Solution
This research has developed new designs that can reduce embodied carbon by up to 45 % through smart architectural and material measures. This includes modifying the structural layout, using mass timber and reclaimed materials, and eliminating unnecessary finishes, such as carpet and suspended ceilings.
The research develops a new method and visualisation tool for architects to measure these emissions, track their changes over time and identify simple and verifiable ways to reduce them.
Target customers / end-users
• architects and designers
• developers and builders
• policymakers.
Progress
• the project was a collaboration with UTS, Terroir Architects and Cantilever Engineers
• ongoing collaborations with the Green Building Council of Australia
• AU $ 45k of grant funding received
Prototype developed
TRL 5
Climate & Clean Energy
This project brought together architects, engineers and building scientists to test alternative design, material and technology strategies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions in new buildings. The results yield design combinations that reduce embodied carbon( emissions from building materials and construction) by up to 45 %.
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