Taking a Look at Embodied Carbon
It’s no secret that buildings account for 40% of global greenhouse emissions; 28% from building operations and 12% from embodied carbon in materials. Yet, while many decarbonization efforts have been implemented in reducing operational carbon through energy-efficient design, embodied carbon is often overlooked. Embodied carbon refers to the CO₂ emissions associated with the extraction, manufacture, transportation, and installation of building materials. Once construction is complete, these emissions are effectively locked in, meaning we, as structural engineers, have lost our ability to reduce emissions further.
The materials we specify influence not only building performance but also environmental and human health at both global and local scales. Engaging in meaningful discussions about structural systems and material choices early in the design process, alongside the entire project team, can help identify opportunities to reduce embodied carbon. By addressing it from the outset, embodied carbon can become a key performance metric rather than an afterthought.
For more information on how you can help drive the conversation around embodied reduction on your projects, reach out to any member of the Sustainable Design Committee. Want to learn more? Get started with SE 2050 Committee’s Resources Working Group “Top 10 Things Every Structural Engineer Should Know.”
