What is Whole Life Carbon?
The total carbon emissions from a building over its entire life cycle, including materials, construction, operation, maintenance, and demolition. Whole life carbon assessments are increasingly required for major developments.
Why it matters
The UK Green Building Council and RIBA have published whole life carbon targets, and planning authorities are beginning to require whole life carbon assessments for major projects. Understanding this metric is essential for developers and their supply chains.
Example
A property developer commissions a whole life carbon assessment for a 50-unit residential scheme. The assessment shows that embodied carbon in the structure accounts for 55% of total lifecycle emissions, prompting a switch from steel to cross-laminated timber.
Related terms
Embodied Carbon
The total greenhouse gas emissions from the extraction, manufacture, transport, and assembly of materials used in a product or building. Embodied carbon is distinct from operational emissions that occur during use.
Operational Carbon
Carbon emissions from the energy used to operate a building, including heating, cooling, lighting, and appliances. Operational carbon can be reduced through energy efficiency and renewable energy.
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