Introduction to the Embodied Carbon Primer
The Embodied carbon primer is a supplementary guidance document produced by the London Energy Transformation Initiative (LETI) to support the Climate Emergency Design Guide. It provides practical information on reducing the carbon emissions associated with the manufacture, transport, and construction of building materials, targeting professionals involved in sustainable housing across Europe.
Scope and Purpose of the Guidance
The guide outlines methods for assessing embodied carbon, identifies high‑impact material categories, and offers strategies to minimise carbon footprints throughout the building lifecycle. It is designed to complement design‑stage tools, enabling architects, engineers, and developers to make informed choices that align with Europe’s net‑zero targets.
Key Data on Embodied Carbon Impacts
LETI highlights that embodied carbon can account for up to 50 % of a building’s total greenhouse‑gas emissions, especially in low‑energy or passive‑house projects where operational emissions are low. The primer cites average emission factors such as 0.9 tCO₂e / m³ for concrete and 2.5 tCO₂e / m³ for steel, underscoring the importance of material selection.
Strategies for Material Selection and Optimisation
The document recommends prioritising low‑carbon materials like timber, recycled steel, and low‑ clinker cement. It also promotes design approaches such as modular construction, material reuse, and circular‑economy principles to extend the service life of components and reduce waste.
Tools and Methodologies for Assessment
A suite of calculation tools is referenced, including the Inventory of Carbon and Energy (ICE) database and the European Public Procurement Online (EPPO) guidelines. The primer provides step‑by‑step instructions for conducting life‑cycle assessment (LCA) at the design stage, enabling rapid iteration of material alternatives.
Policy Context and European Targets
The guidance aligns with the European Union’s Renovation Wave and the European Green Deal, both of which set ambitious targets for building‑sector decarbonisation. It notes that member states are introducing mandatory embodied‑carbon reporting for new construction, making the primer a timely resource for compliance.
Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
LETI, a collaborative research network, brings together academia, industry, and government bodies to advance low‑carbon building practices. The primer reflects contributions from experts in structural engineering, sustainable design, and climate policy, ensuring a multidisciplinary perspective.
Resources and Further Reading
The document includes references to peer‑reviewed studies, case‑study examples of low‑carbon housing projects, and links to the LETI website for additional tools and updates. Users are encouraged to consult these sources for deeper technical detail and implementation guidance.