Measuring embodied carbon in construction is an important step towards reducing the environmental impact of the building industry in the UK. Embodied carbon refers to the amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that are emitted during the manufacturing, transportation and construction of building materials and components.

By measuring embodied carbon, contractors and designers can identify areas where improvements can be made to reduce emissions, such as by choosing more sustainable and low-carbon building materials or by reducing the distance materials are transported. This can also help to reduce the carbon footprint of a building over its entire life cycle.

In addition, measuring embodied carbon is increasingly becoming a requirement for compliance with planning policies, environmental certifications such as BREEAM and LEED, and is being considered for inclusion under future Building Regulations through Part Z. Therefore, contractors and designers who can effectively measure and reduce embodied carbon can gain a competitive advantage in the market and demonstrate environmentally responsible practices to their clients.

To find out more about these assessments and how we can help, read our guides below:

A Guide to Life Cycle Assessments – AES

A Guide to Life Cycle Costing – AES

A Guide to Whole Life Carbon Assessments – AES