We all know that increased carbon emissions have had adverse environmental, social and financial effects around the world, with the UN declaring that the built environment contributes around 40% of all carbon output.
And now, more than ever, it is vital we increase efforts to reduce carbon emissions and deliver net-zero commitments.
Northern Ireland’s Climate Change Act sets a target of net zero emissions by 2050, with at least a 48% reduction in net emissions by 2030.
Embodied carbon is the carbon footprint of a building or infrastructure, covering emissions from material manufacturing, transport, and construction. However, it also extends to replacement, refurbishment, and end-of-life phases, encompassing the entire life cycle of the materials and products we use in our buildings. This includes the carbon sunk into materials throughout the asset’s life, not just up to its initial establishment.
To succeed, we need carbon measurement to become widely understood and adopted in both public and private sectors. Accurate, consistent carbon measurement and reporting helps us understand emissions and track their reduction.
Tools like Rics’ Whole Life Carbon Assessment (WLCA) and Rider Levett Bucknall’s newly launched global carbon calculation service will help steer the industry towards decarbonisation.
Both guides, which follow the same methodology, are applicable to all buildings and infrastructure projects through the asset life cycle and aim to support industry professions meet embodied carbon and wider sustainability targets.
While accurate carbon measurement and reduction strategies are critical, it is equally important to adopt a holistic approach that includes consuming less, preserving natural resources, and regenerating ecosystems.
Even without precise quantification, actions such as reducing material waste and enhancing biodiversity through material choices can contribute significantly to wider sustainability goals. Committing to building a future where the built environment not only minimises its carbon footprint but also actively contributes to the health and wellbeing of our planet.
This is a time of enormous transition for the built and natural environment. The role that Rics members play in delivering net-zero ambitions is vital and the leadership of professional bodies in supporting this transition are central to its success.
Sustainability should be at the heart of decision making, and RICS is continuing to encourage professionals to embed low carbon targets to help decarbonise the built and natural environment towards building a sustainable future.
- Carolyn Brady is a NI regional board member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics) and a partner at Rider Levett Bucknall.
