Embodied Carbon – Data Sheet

Elvet Consultants have experience in developing, implementing & managing complex embodied carbon measurement tools that enable our clients to consider the overall environmental impact of their asset whilst delivering Value for Money.

Introduction

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Carbon accounting is historically focussed on the emissions created by the burning of fossil fuels during a building’s operational life (e.g. heating and cooling).

Embodied carbon quantifies the CO2 produced in relation to the construction of the building. This includes the extraction of raw materials, manufacturing of products, building works and the eventual disposal.

At present the industry has focussed on reducing the operational carbon associated with the occupation of a building by improving the performance of lighting, heating and ventilation; however as building designs are becoming more efficient the need to also consider the whole life carbon footprint is becoming increasingly recognised throughout the industry.

“Elvet were instrumental in developing a bespoke embodied carbon measurement tool to quantify a five-year construction plan circa £1.3bn”

Methodology

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Elvet Consultants have identified that embodied carbon has a direct link with capital spend. This has allowed us to clearly identify the key elements which pose the greatest significance within a project. We can use this information to form the basis of a carbon reduction plan and develop targeted change.

Embodied Carbon Process

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Within this strategy we can quantify the effect that different materials and construction methods would have upon the project’s embodied carbon. To enable the client to make an informed decision, we can also include the financial implications attached to each option considering the CAPEX, OPEX and Disposal.

Each building material will have its own unique cyclical maintenance regime including additional operational benefits, i.e. thermal efficiency. These will be considered as part of the overall reduction plan, to ensure the most economical and sustainable option is adopted.

Through using this methodology we have identified significant cost savings, whilst also improving the scheme’s overall carbon footprint.

Benefits

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Calculating the embodied carbon and formulating a carbon reduction plan will allow you to fully appreciate the environmental impact of your development, whilst also identifying potential cost-saving solutions to reduce your carbon footprint during the lifetime of the asset.

Quantity surveyors are typically involved in the measurement of materials and labour to provide a financial appraisal of the development; however we can provide the added value of calculating the embodied carbon at the same time, whilst maintaining price competitiveness.

Calculating the embodied carbon allows you to advertise your green credentials to the wider market and promote your commitment to reducing the impact of your business operations upon the environment.

For more information please contact us.

Embodied Carbon Project

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