What is Embodied Carbon?

What is Embodied Carbon and Why Does It Matter?

When we think about carbon emissions, we usually picture cars, factories, or power plants. But did you know that the materials used to build our homes, offices, and even the roads we drive on also have a carbon footprint? This is what's known as embodied carbon—the total amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted during the entire lifecycle of a building material. This includes everything from extracting raw materials to manufacturing, transporting, and eventually disposing of them.

Breaking Down Embodied Carbon

Embodied carbon is different from operational carbon, which refers to the CO2 emissions produced during the building's use, like heating, cooling, and electricity. While operational carbon has been the focus for many years, embodied carbon is just as crucial—especially in today’s efforts to combat climate change.

The process starts when raw materials like iron ore or limestone are extracted. The energy used during extraction, manufacturing, and transportation contributes significantly to the material's embodied carbon. Even recycling or reusing materials has a carbon cost, though usually lower than using new materials.

Why Should We Care About Embodied Carbon?

In construction, embodied carbon can account for up to half of a building's total carbon emissions over its lifetime. As buildings become more energy-efficient, the share of embodied carbon in their total carbon footprint grows. Addressing embodied carbon is essential for reducing overall emissions, particularly in the early stages of a building's life.

Real-Life Examples of Embodied Carbon in Action

1. Timber vs. Concrete: Timber is often considered a more sustainable building material because it has a lower embodied carbon compared to concrete. Wood also stores carbon, making it a double win. For example, the world’s tallest timber building in Norway, Mjøstårnet, has significantly less embodied carbon than an equivalent concrete structure.

2. Recycled Steel: Using recycled steel instead of new steel can reduce embodied carbon by up to 50%. The Petronas Towers in Malaysia used a high percentage of recycled steel, significantly cutting down their carbon footprint.

3. Reclaimed Brick: Reusing bricks from demolished buildings can lower the embodied carbon of new construction. London’s King's Cross development utilized reclaimed bricks, showcasing a practical application of this approach.

Embodied Carbon in Our Self-Sustainable City Project

At our self-sustainable city project, we take embodied carbon seriously. By choosing materials with lower embodied carbon, like locally-sourced timber and recycled steel, we not only reduce the environmental impact of construction but also promote sustainability in every aspect of the project. We believe that every building material choice matters, and by prioritizing low embodied carbon materials, we’re building a greener future.

Our homes are designed to be not just energy-efficient but also mindful of the carbon footprint left behind by the materials used. By integrating natural farming and renewable energy systems into our construction practices, we ensure that our city not only meets today’s needs but also preserves resources for future generations.

Your Thoughts?

Have you ever considered the carbon footprint of the materials around you? What are your thoughts on reducing embodied carbon in construction? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below—we'd love to hear from you!