Tag Archive for: construction

carbon

Sustainable Building Practices: Going Green in Construction

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Sustainability has become a crucial focus in the construction industry as environmental concerns continue to grow. By adopting sustainable building practices, construction companies can reduce their environmental impact, improve energy efficiency, and create healthier living environments. This post explores various sustainable practices that are shaping the future of construction.

Eco-friendly Materials

Using eco-friendly materials is a fundamental aspect of sustainable construction. These materials reduce the environmental footprint of buildings and often provide better performance. Examples include:

  • Recycled Steel: Utilized for its strength and durability, recycled steel reduces the need for new steel production, which is energy-intensive.
  • Bamboo: A rapidly renewable resource, bamboo is used for flooring, cabinetry, and structural elements due to its strength and sustainability.
  • Green Concrete: Incorporating industrial waste such as fly ash or slag, green concrete reduces the need for cement, thereby lowering carbon emissions.

Energy-efficient Building Designs

Designing buildings for energy efficiency is key to reducing operational energy use. Strategies include:

  • Passive Solar Design: Orienting buildings to maximize natural light and heat during the winter while minimizing heat gain in the summer.
  • Insulation: Using high-quality insulation materials to reduce heating and cooling needs, thus lowering energy consumption.
  • Energy-efficient Windows: Installing double or triple-glazed windows to improve thermal performance and reduce energy loss.

Waste Management

Effective waste management practices can significantly reduce the environmental impact of construction projects. Approaches include:

  • Waste Reduction: Planning projects to minimize waste generation by accurately estimating material needs and using modular construction techniques.
  • Recycling and Reuse: Implementing on-site recycling programs for materials like metal, wood, and concrete, and reusing materials where possible.
  • Proper Disposal: Ensuring hazardous materials are disposed of safely and in accordance with regulations to prevent environmental contamination.

Water Conservation

Water conservation is a critical component of sustainable building. Techniques to reduce water use include:

  • Low-flow Fixtures: Installing low-flow faucets, toilets, and showerheads to reduce water consumption.
  • Rainwater Harvesting: Collecting and storing rainwater for non-potable uses such as irrigation and toilet flushing.
  • Greywater Systems: Reusing water from sinks, showers, and laundry for landscape irrigation or toilet flushing, reducing the demand for fresh water.

Renewable Energy Integration

Incorporating renewable energy sources into building designs can significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Options include:

  • Solar Panels: Installing photovoltaic panels on rooftops or other structures to generate electricity from sunlight.
  • Wind Turbines: Using small-scale wind turbines to generate electricity in areas with sufficient wind resources.
  • Geothermal Systems: Harnessing the earth’s natural heat to provide efficient heating and cooling for buildings.

Green Building Certifications

Pursuing green building certifications can help ensure that buildings meet high sustainability standards. Notable certifications include:

  • LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design): A widely recognized certification that covers various aspects of green building, from site selection to energy efficiency.
  • BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method): Another leading certification that assesses the environmental performance of buildings.
  • Living Building Challenge: A rigorous certification that requires buildings to be self-sufficient and have a positive impact on their surroundings.

Adopting sustainable building practices is not only beneficial for the environment but also offers long-term economic advantages and improves the quality of life for occupants. By using eco-friendly materials, designing for energy efficiency, managing waste, conserving water, integrating renewable energy, and pursuing green certifications, the construction industry can lead the way in creating a more sustainable future. Embracing these practices today will help ensure that we build a healthier, more resilient world for generations to come.

If you would like to discuss please contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our experts.

Best Practices for Construction Site Safety

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Safety is paramount on construction sites where hazards are ever-present. Implementing best practices for safety not only protects workers but also enhances productivity and reduces costs associated with accidents. This post outlines essential safety practices that should be adopted to ensure a secure working environment on construction sites.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Wearing appropriate PPE is the first line of defense against construction site hazards. Essential PPE includes:

  • Helmets: Protect against head injuries from falling objects or accidental impacts.
  • Safety Glasses/Goggles: Shield eyes from dust, debris, and chemical splashes.
  • High-Visibility Clothing: Ensures workers are easily seen, especially near moving machinery.
  • Gloves: Provide hand protection against cuts, abrasions, and chemical exposure.
  • Steel-toed Boots: Protect feet from heavy falling objects and punctures.

Safety Training Programs

Regular safety training is crucial to ensure all workers are aware of potential hazards and know how to handle them. Training programs should cover:

  • General Safety Procedures: Basic safety protocols applicable to all construction sites.
  • Equipment Operation: Safe use of machinery and tools.
  • Emergency Response: Procedures for dealing with accidents and emergencies, including first aid and evacuation plans.
  • Specific Hazards: Training tailored to the unique risks of each project or site.

Site Inspections

Regular site inspections help identify and mitigate potential hazards before they cause accidents. Key aspects include:

  • Daily Walkthroughs: Supervisors should conduct daily inspections to check for hazards and ensure compliance with safety protocols.
  • Checklists: Use detailed checklists to ensure all aspects of site safety are reviewed.
  • Reporting Systems: Implement a system for workers to report hazards or unsafe conditions immediately.

Technology in Safety

Leveraging technology can significantly enhance construction site safety. Useful technologies include:

  • Wearables: Devices that monitor workers’ health and safety conditions, such as heart rate monitors and GPS trackers.
  • Safety Apps: Mobile apps that provide safety checklists, training resources, and incident reporting tools.
  • Drones: Used for site inspections and monitoring, especially in hard-to-reach or hazardous areas.
  • Virtual Reality (VR): VR training programs offer immersive safety training experiences, helping workers better understand and prepare for real-life scenarios.

Fall Protection

Falls are a leading cause of injury and death on construction sites. Effective fall protection measures include:

  • Guardrails: Install guardrails around open edges and elevated platforms.
  • Safety Nets: Use safety nets to catch falling workers or debris.
  • Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS): Equip workers with harnesses and lifelines when working at heights.
  • Scaffolding Safety: Ensure scaffolding is properly erected, secured, and inspected regularly.

Equipment Maintenance

Regular maintenance of tools and machinery is crucial to prevent accidents caused by equipment failure. Best practices include:

  • Routine Inspections: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance for all equipment.
  • Proper Storage: Store tools and equipment properly to prevent damage and unauthorized use.
  • User Training: Ensure that only trained and authorised personnel operate machinery.

Clear Communication

Effective communication on construction sites can prevent misunderstandings that lead to accidents. Strategies include:

  • Toolbox Talks: Conduct daily or weekly meetings to discuss safety topics and site-specific hazards.
  • Signage: Use clear, visible signs to indicate hazards, safety zones, and emergency exits.
  • Radios/Intercoms: Equip workers with communication devices to stay in touch, especially on large or noisy sites.

Substance Abuse Policies

Implementing strict substance abuse policies helps ensure that all workers are fit for duty. Key elements include:

  • Zero-tolerance Policy: Clearly communicate and enforce a zero-tolerance policy for drugs and alcohol.
  • Testing: Conduct regular and random drug and alcohol testing.
  • Support Programs: Provide access to counseling and rehabilitation programs for workers who need assistance.

Implementing these best practices can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries on construction sites, creating a safer and more productive work environment. Prioritising safety through the use of PPE, regular training, thorough site inspections, technological tools, fall protection measures, equipment maintenance, clear communication, and strict substance abuse policies is essential for the well-being of all construction workers. Building a culture of safety not only protects workers but also enhances the overall success of construction projects.

If you would like to discuss please contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our experts.

Regulation

Managing Construction Projects: Tips for Success

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Effective management of construction projects is crucial for ensuring timely completion, within budget, and to the desired quality standards. With various challenges such as tight schedules, budget constraints, and coordination among multiple stakeholders, efficient project management is essential. This post provides key tips for successfully managing construction projects.

Comprehensive Project Planning

Successful construction projects start with detailed planning. Essential steps include:

  • Defining Objectives: Clearly outline project goals, scope, and deliverables.
  • Scheduling: Develop a realistic project timeline, including milestones and deadlines.
  • Resource Allocation: Identify required resources, including labor, materials, and equipment, and allocate them efficiently.
  • Risk Management: Anticipate potential risks and create contingency plans.

Effective Communication

Clear and consistent communication is vital for coordinating efforts and avoiding misunderstandings. Best practices include:

  • Regular Meetings: Schedule frequent meetings with all stakeholders to discuss progress, challenges, and updates.
  • Communication Tools: Utilize tools like project management software, instant messaging, and email to keep everyone informed.
  • Documentation: Maintain thorough documentation of all communications, decisions, and changes to ensure transparency.

Budget Management

Keeping the project within budget is crucial for its success. Strategies for effective budget management include:

  • Detailed Cost Estimation: Prepare accurate cost estimates based on thorough research and past project data.
  • Monitoring Expenses: Track expenditures regularly and compare them against the budget.
  • Cost Control Measures: Implement cost-saving measures without compromising quality, and be prepared to adjust plans if necessary.

Quality Control

Maintaining high standards of quality ensures the project meets specifications and client expectations. Key practices include:

  • Setting Standards: Define quality standards and specifications for all materials and workmanship.
  • Regular Inspections: Conduct frequent quality checks and inspections at various stages of the project.
  • Training: Ensure that all team members are well-trained and understand the quality requirements.
  • Feedback Mechanism: Establish a system for reporting and addressing quality issues promptly.

Risk Management

Proactively managing risks can prevent delays and additional costs. Effective risk management involves:

  • Identifying Risks: Conduct risk assessments to identify potential issues that could impact the project.
  • Mitigation Plans: Develop strategies to mitigate identified risks.
  • Monitoring: Continuously monitor for new risks and adjust plans accordingly.
  • Insurance: Ensure that appropriate insurance coverage is in place to protect against unforeseen events.

Resource Management

Efficient resource management ensures that labor, materials, and equipment are used effectively. Key strategies include:

  • Scheduling: Create detailed schedules for labor and equipment to avoid downtime.
  • Inventory Control: Maintain accurate records of materials and supplies to prevent shortages or overstocking.
  • Subcontractor Coordination: Ensure that subcontractors are well-coordinated and adhere to project timelines and standards.

Technology Utilisation

Leveraging technology can enhance project management efficiency. Useful technologies include:

  • Project Management Software: Use software like Procore, Buildertrend, or MS Project for planning, scheduling, and collaboration.
  • BIM (Building Information Modeling): Utilise BIM for better planning, design, and management of construction projects.
  • Drones: Employ drones for site surveys, progress monitoring, and safety inspections.
  • Mobile Apps: Implement mobile apps for real-time communication, data collection, and task management.

Stakeholder Engagement

Engaging stakeholders throughout the project ensures their needs and expectations are met. Effective engagement involves:

  • Regular Updates: Keep stakeholders informed about project progress and any changes.
  • Feedback: Seek and incorporate stakeholder feedback to improve project outcomes.
  • Conflict Resolution: Address any conflicts or issues promptly to maintain positive relationships.

Sustainability Practices

Incorporating sustainability into construction projects can lead to long-term benefits. Key practices include:

  • Eco-friendly Materials: Use sustainable and recycled materials whenever possible.
  • Energy Efficiency: Design buildings for energy efficiency and incorporate renewable energy sources.
  • Waste Management: Implement strategies to reduce, reuse, and recycle construction waste.

Effective construction project management involves comprehensive planning, clear communication, budget and quality control, proactive risk management, efficient resource utilisation, technology adoption, stakeholder engagement, and sustainability practices. By implementing these tips, construction managers can enhance project success, delivering projects on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality. Prioritising these practices not only ensures project success but also fosters a positive and productive working environment.

If you would like to discuss please contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our experts.

Traditional building methods

The Environmental Impact Of Traditional Construction Methods

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Traditional construction methods, while essential for building infrastructure and meeting housing demands, often have significant environmental impacts. These impacts arise from resource extraction, energy consumption, waste generation, and other factors associated with conventional building practices. Here are key environmental concerns related to traditional construction methods:

Resource Depletion:

  • Timber and Deforestation: Traditional construction heavily relies on timber for framing and other structural elements. Unsustainable logging practices contribute to deforestation, leading to loss of biodiversity, disruption of ecosystems, and increased greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Mineral Extraction: The extraction of raw materials such as sand, gravel, and other minerals for concrete production can result in habitat destruction, soil erosion, and depletion of natural resources.

Energy Consumption:

  • High Embodied Energy: The manufacturing and transportation of construction materials, especially those like steel and concrete, require significant energy inputs. This embodied energy contributes to the overall carbon footprint of a building.
  • Energy-Intensive Production: Traditional manufacturing processes for materials like cement involve high-temperature kilns, contributing to substantial greenhouse gas emissions.

Waste Generation:

  • Construction and Demolition Waste: Traditional construction often generates large amounts of waste during both the construction and demolition phases. This waste includes excess materials, packaging, and demolition debris, which can end up in landfills, contributing to environmental pollution.
  • Single-Use Materials: Many traditional construction materials are designed for single-use, contributing to a linear, rather than circular, economy.

Carbon Emissions:

  • Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The production of cement, a key ingredient in concrete, is a major source of carbon dioxide emissions. Additionally, transportation of materials and machinery to construction sites adds to the carbon footprint of traditional construction.
  • Operational Energy: Buildings constructed using traditional methods may lack energy-efficient features, leading to increased energy consumption for heating, cooling, and lighting over their lifespan.

Water Consumption:

  • Concrete Production: The production of concrete involves significant water usage, and the extraction of aggregates can impact local water sources. Water scarcity in certain regions exacerbates the environmental impact of traditional construction methods.

Land Use and Habitat Disruption:

  • Urbanisation and Expansion: Traditional construction often involves expanding into natural habitats, leading to loss of biodiversity, disruption of ecosystems, and fragmentation of landscapes.
  • Impervious Surfaces: The creation of impervious surfaces, such as roads and pavements associated with traditional construction, can contribute to increased runoff, soil erosion, and changes in local hydrology.

Air and Noise Pollution:

  • Construction Activities: The construction phase itself generates air and noise pollution through heavy machinery, construction vehicles, and other equipment.

Acknowledging these environmental impacts is crucial for the construction industry to transition towards more sustainable practices. Adopting eco-friendly materials, embracing energy-efficient technologies, and incorporating sustainable design principles are essential steps in mitigating the environmental consequences of traditional construction methods.

If you would like to discuss your projects environmental impact please contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our experts.

Sustainability

The Growing Importance Of Sustainability In The Construction Industry

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The growing importance of sustainability in the construction industry is driven by a combination of environmental, social, and economic factors. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and resource depletion, the construction sector plays a significant role in shaping a more sustainable future. Here are several key aspects highlighting the increasing importance of sustainability in construction:

Environmental Awareness:

  • Climate Change Concerns: The construction industry is a major contributor to carbon emissions, energy consumption, and waste generation. With increasing awareness of climate change, there’s a growing urgency to reduce the environmental impact of construction activities.
  • Resource Depletion: Traditional construction practices often involve the extraction and consumption of finite resources. Sustainable construction aims to minimise resource depletion by promoting the use of renewable materials, recycling, and efficient resource management.

Regulatory Pressures:

  • Stringent Regulations: Governments worldwide are implementing stricter environmental regulations and building codes to address climate concerns. Compliance with these regulations often requires construction companies to adopt sustainable practices, making sustainability a legal and regulatory imperative.

Cost Savings and Efficiency:

  • Long-Term Economic Benefits: While there may be initial costs associated with implementing sustainable practices, the long-term economic benefits are significant. Energy-efficient buildings, for example, can lead to reduced operational costs over the lifespan of the structure.
  • Market Demand: The demand for sustainable buildings is increasing as more businesses and individuals prioritise environmentally friendly options. Construction companies that embrace sustainability can tap into a growing market and attract clients who value eco-friendly practices.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):

  • Reputation and Brand Image: Adopting sustainable construction practices enhances a company’s reputation and brand image. Clients, investors, and the public increasingly expect businesses to demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility and social well-being.
  • Social Impact: Sustainable construction goes beyond environmental concerns; it also addresses social aspects such as worker safety, community engagement, and the well-being of future generations. Construction companies are recognising the importance of contributing positively to the communities in which they operate.

Innovation and Technology:

  • Technological Advancements: Advances in technology have made sustainable construction more feasible and cost-effective. Innovations such as smart building systems, energy-efficient materials, and construction technologies contribute to the industry’s ability to adopt more sustainable practices.
  • Research and Development: Ongoing research and development in sustainable construction materials and methodologies are driving continuous improvements and providing construction companies with more options to reduce their environmental impact.

Global Commitments:

  • International Agreements: Global agreements and initiatives, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasise the need for sustainable development across all sectors, including construction. The construction industry plays a crucial role in achieving these overarching sustainability goals.

In summary, the growing importance of sustainability in the construction industry is a response to environmental challenges, regulatory pressures, economic benefits, and societal expectations. Construction companies that proactively integrate sustainable practices into their operations are better positioned to thrive in a rapidly evolving business landscape while contributing to a more sustainable and resilient built environment.

If you would like to discuss how to make your project more sustainable please contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our experts.

Heat Pump

Worlds First Bi-Valiant Heat Pump Ready Radiator

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ThermAssured is the worlds first bi-vailant ‘dual fuel’ radiant panel heater that combines a wet and electric heating technology into a single emitter.

The UK lags behind the rest of Europe in the installation of heat pumps; especially on retro fit projects. This is mainly because the UK has the oldest housing stock in Europe (>30% built before 1944) and that there is always a concern that older proerties cannot be insulated well enough to be warmed properly by a heat pump.

As a result, heat pump installs are stagnating, and there is a growing number of press articles featuring disatisfied customers who are cold during the worst days of Winter.

ThermAssured provides for an additional heating element in the form of a fire-safe cable that can be activated when, and only when the room fails to reach the target tempertaure in a pre-detremined time scale.

This means that for 95% of the heating season, the heat pump does the ‘heavy lifting’ warming the house using renewable energy as intended. However, after a pre-deterimned time (usually 30 minutes for care homes and assisted living, and 60 minutes in regular residential) if the room has still not reached the target temperature, the back up electric fire safe element kicks in to ‘boost’ the temperature.

Once achieved, both systems can be switched off until the room calls for heat, in which case the process starts all over again.

This means that the eletcric heating is never on when the room is being heated correctly, but is there in the event of a bitter cold snap providing occupants with peace of mind that they wont be cold.

The electrical back up heating can be installed in the most important rooms only (such as main living room and the main bedroom) and not in any others if required.

The heatingt element is also available as an ‘upgrade option’ should the ThermAssured system be installed as a ‘wet’ system only to begin with.

It is therefore now possible for developers and housing providers to have more confidence using renewables, by installing a single heating emitter that can operate on a heat pump, with solar PV back up or mains electric providing an insurance against complaints of underheating.

Manufactured in the UK, THermAssured is launched at Construction Week 2023.

 

 

Screeding

Broadsword are an approved Flowcrete Installer

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We are proud to announce that we have supplied, installed and handed over over 220,00m2 of Screed, Insulation and DPM in 2022!

This has been made possible by our exceptional management team and the fleet of 16 Putzmeister United Kingdom pumps.

2022 has also seen us become Flowcrete approved installers, allowing us to supply all isocrete specialist screed along with our traditional specialist flowing systems.

Flowcrete is a global manufacturer of high-quality flooring solutions, including epoxy and polyurethane resin flooring, industrial flooring, and car park decking systems. The company has over 35 years of experience in the flooring industry and operates in over 60 countries worldwide.

Flowcrete’s products are designed to meet the unique needs of a wide range of commercial and industrial applications.

There are several reasons why Flowcrete may be a good choice for flooring solutions in various commercial and industrial applications:

  • Durability: designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, chemical spills, and other types of wear and tear that can damage traditional flooring materials.
  • Safety: offer slip resistance, which is important in environments where safety is a top priority.
  • Hygiene: easy to clean and maintain, making them ideal for environments that require a high level of hygiene.
  • Customisation: offers a wide range of colours, patterns, and finishes, allowing customers to create a unique and visually appealing flooring solution that meets their specific needs.
  • Sustainability: committed to sustainability and offers flooring solutions that are eco-friendly and reduce carbon footprint.

This year we are looking to expand our operations, for all enquiries please contact richard@broadsword-group.co.uk or call us on 02380 675888.

 

carbon

Action needs to be taken on EU carbon emissions

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EU Building regulations state that all new buildings constructed within the EU must be zero–emission buildings by 2030 and new ‘public’ buildings must be zero–emission buildings by 2027.

WorldGBC has convened a coalition of 35 built environment stakeholder groups, representing over 5,000 organisations from across the building value chain, to call for high level ambition as Parliamentary negotiations on the Energy Performance of Building Directive (EPBD) enter their final stage.  With the vote approaching, the coalition is calling on politicians to seize a once-in-a-generation opportunity to eliminate carbon emissions from Europe’s building stock.

This past week WorldGBC has written an open letter to MEPs calling on them to:

  • Accelerate building renovation and address energy use and efficiency via the introduction of Minimum Energy Performance Standards and harmonisation of Energy Performance Certificates
  • Address total lifecycle emissions of buildings, including both operational and embodied emissions by supporting provisions regarding Whole Life Carbon reporting, targets, and thresholds

An ambitious EPBD revision will make EU building compatible with EU climate targets, take 35 million citizens out of energy poverty1 and unlock the economic benefits of creating up to 3.3 million green jobs in the EU every year2 while boosting local communities.

In Europe, buildings account for around 40% of energy consumption and 36% of CO2 emissions. Embodied carbon, which refers to emissions from the construction, renovation, deconstruction or demolition and the wider supply chain of a building, contributes typically between 10-20% of the EU building carbon footprint. This means that before a building is even in use, it has already contributed significant carbon emissions and depleted the EU’s ‘carbon budget’.

This letter comes amid growing political and industry support for policy that tackles the Whole Life Carbon impact of buildings.

To view the letter please go here

 

Source: worldgbc.org / bdc magazine.com

Passiv Haus

Will England follow Scotlands lead in green building?

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All newly built homes in Scotland will need to conform to an innovative green building standard championed by a Labour MSP, under plans announced by the Scottish Government.

Labour’s Alex Rowley proposed the Domestic Building Environmental Standards (Scotland) Bill at the end of 2022 to introduce the Passivhaus standards for all newly built homes in Scotland.

The Passivhaus standards create ultra-low energy homes which aim to minimise the need to heat and cool buildings.

In a letter to Mr Rowley, Minister for Zero Carbon Buildings, Active Travel and Tenants’ Rights, Patrick Harvie confirmed that the Scottish Government would implement the standards within two years through secondary legislation – without the long process of a member’s Bill passed through Holyrood.

Homes built to Passivhaus level meet high standards of airtightness, insulation and energy efficiency, however the Scottish government has confirmed it is introducing its own ‘Passivhaus equivalent’ rather than using existing Passivhaus certification.

This Scottish equivalent will introduce minimum environmental design standards for new build homes to ensure they have high energy efficiency and thermal performance.

The Scottish government says it will implement the new standards within two years through secondary legislation. Development work will commence early in 2023 before the amendments are bought into regulations by December 2024.

A Passivhaus Trust spokesperson added: “It is fantastic to hear the Scottish government has committed to bringing forward a bill requiring higher energy-efficiency standards in domestic buildings, which also recognises the need to assure occupants that the design and construction of these buildings will deliver the actual performance sought in practice.

“Statements including ‘a Scottish equivalent to the Passivhaus standard’ and ‘explicit support for Passivhaus and equivalent standards’ fill us with hope. Now we must ensure that the bill is well developed and implemented to deliver the greatest impact on the actual performance of new homes in Scotland.”

To learn more please visit the Passivhaus website here

Source: The National Scot / www.passivhaustrust.org.uk / homebuilding.co.uk /

carbon

Can a building be net zero carbon?

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Following on from our post last month about COP27, and the growing importance of sustainability in the construction industry, zero carbon is also something that is increasingly in the news.

A panel has been put together to determine exactly what constitutes a net zero carbon building and is now calling for evidence.

The NZCBS is the UK’s first Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard and are championing the initiative.

We are calling on UK built environment industry practitioners to share embodied carbon and in-use operational energy performance data for their buildings.

To develop the Standard, benchmarks will be agreed for the operational energy usage and embodied carbon performance levels today, and limits and targets will be set out for future years based on the industry’s required decarbonisation trajectory. To do this, the project is seeking case study data from the real estate and built environment industry.

The deadline for submission is the 16th December.

The Standard will set out metrics by which net zero carbon performance is evaluated, as well as performance targets, or limits, that need to be met. These are likely to include energy use, upfront embodied carbon, and lifecycle embodied carbon, with other metrics – such as space heating/cooling demand and peak load – also to be considered. It will also cover the approach to carbon accounting, procuring renewable energy, and the treatment of residual emissions, including carbon ‘offsetting’. However, the scope and output of the Standard may evolve throughout the development process.
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It is expected that claims will be required to be validated based on in-use measured data and interim verification of an asset at design stage or once the asset is built but not yet operating may also be considered.

The output will be for developers, contractors, asset owners and managers, occupiers, investors, financiers and funders, consultants, building industry professionals, building managers and product/material manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors. It is for anyone who wants to either fund, procure, design, or specify a Net Zero Carbon Building and anyone wanting to demonstrate that their building is ‘Net Zero’-aligned with an industry-agreed Standard.
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Performance targets will align with science-based trajectories needed to achieve net zero by 2050 and a 78% reduction by 2035 in the UK, i.e. what is known to be required to stand a reasonable chance of mitigating global warming to 1.5°C. It will also align with the energy demand reductions projected to be required to enable a net zero carbon energy supply sector.
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The approach will be applicable to both existing and new buildings (e.g. Homes, Offices, Education, Industry, Retail, Hotels, Healthcare etc.). To start, the focus will be on the most common building typologies, especially those for which industry stakeholders have already robust performance data available to inform the setting of performance targets. The Standard will not apply to infrastructure.

The project will hopefully launch in May.

So, what actually is a net carbon building?

A carbon neutral building is one where the design, construction, and operations do not contribute to emissions of greenhouse gases that cause climate change. Reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions from the building sector will greatly help meet climate goals.

In the short and medium term the national grid will not be fully decarbonised and so buildings will need to make use of carbon offsetting to achieve a net zero carbon balance.

Sources: NZC Buildings / net zero carbon guide