The building sector is responsible for approximately 40% of global CO2 emissions.
Reducing emissions from buildings is crucial for climate change mitigation.
Embodied carbon (emissions from production, transportation, and end-of-life demolition of materials) contributes significantly to a building's total emissions.
Embodied Emissions
From Cradle to Gate
Emissions arise from extraction, transport, and manufacturing of raw materials.
Accounts for 65-85% of total embodied carbon emissions and 10-11% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
Cement and steel production are major contributors.
Reducing Embodied Carbon
Strategies
Use electricity from renewable resources for manufacturing materials like steel and glass.
Difficulties in decarbonizing cement due to chemical reactions during clinker production.
Innovations like carbon-negative concrete and pozzolan (recycled glass) offer solutions.
Carbon-negative concrete can sequester CO2; pozzolan reduces cement needed.
Policy and Incentives
Policies can mandate or incentivize the use of low-emission materials.
The IRA and IIJA provide funding for using low-emission materials in federal construction.
California requires new buildings to use low-emission materials or reuse structures.
End of Life: Reuse and Recycling
Building demolition accounts for up to 15% of embodied carbon emissions.
Design for deconstruction facilitates reuse and supports a circular economy.
Deconstruction is preferred over recycling for energy efficiency.
Innovations like 3D printed houses from recyclable materials show promise.
Policy Recommendations
Limit scale of new projects and adjust zoning laws for repurposing existing buildings.
Portland's policies limit single-family home size and encourage clean purchasing.
Investing in sustainable practices from the start saves on costs in the long run.
Conclusion
Sustainable practices, policies, and technology can reduce emissions in the building sector.
Public infrastructure investments can set sustainability standards.
Partnerships across sectors contribute to the development of climate-friendly materials.
Author Information
Authors: Isabella Millet and Nicole Pouy
Additional Information
EESI provides science-based solutions for climate change and energy challenges.
Sign up for the EESI newsletter for updates on environmental policy and climate solutions.