How do we tackle the issue of embedded carbon in construction materials, and what steps can we take to mitigate it? In an era where sustainable construction is not just a trend but a necessity, the industry is moving beyond basic energy-efficient designs to address a critical environmental challenge: minimizing embedded carbon.
The construction sector is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions, responsible for approximately 40% of annual CO2 releases. Embedded carbon, which accounts for emissions from the production phase to the disposal phase of building materials, is a substantial part of this. Innovations in the production of materials such as concrete and steel can lead to significant emission reductions. For instance, a 2021 RMI study revealed a potential 19% to 46% reduction in emissions through affordable strategies to lower embedded carbon, with minimal cost increases.
Reducing embedded carbon, particularly those emissions categorized under Scope 3, involves addressing manufacturing and supply chain emissions, a more daunting task than cutting down direct emissions from operations (Scope 1) or indirect emissions from energy use (Scope 2). The challenge lies in influencing and collaborating with suppliers to make environmentally conscious choices.
Brent Trenga, a sustainability expert with Kingspan Insulated Panels North America, emphasizes the significance of collaborative efforts in reducing supply chain carbon intensity. The company aims to halve CO2 intensity among its key suppliers by 2030. With advancements like electric arc furnace technology, which boosts steel production efficiency and reduces waste, there’s a pathway to significantly decrease the embedded carbon in steel, especially when powered by renewable energy.
Transportation’s role in embedded carbon is often overstated. While it contributes to overall greenhouse gas emissions, the manufacturing processes for materials like steel and concrete are far more carbon-intensive. According to Trenga, the bulk of carbon intensity in their products originates from supply chain and material sourcing, not transport.
For smaller enterprises, the journey to reducing embedded carbon is as impactful as it is for larger corporations. The market differentiation and competitive advantage gained from sustainable practices can lead to increased sales and profitability. However, initial costs can be a barrier. Thankfully, initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act are providing financial assistance for lifecycle assessments and environmental product declarations, easing the burden on manufacturers committed to sustainability.
Setting ambitious targets for reducing embedded carbon is crucial, but so is acting on those targets promptly. The industry needs to adopt a proactive mindset, focusing on immediate solutions rather than deferring action. By setting and pursuing bold objectives, the construction sector can make rapid strides in reducing its environmental impact, ensuring a sustainable future for all.
source: architecturemagazine.com
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