BUILDING CO2-FOOTPRINT ANALYSIS

It is possible to carry out an indicative analysis at a very early stage in the project to identify the carbon footprint that is strongly influenced by the choice of building materials. Based on the results, it is then possible to apply principles of low carbon construction from the earliest stage of the project.

In the later stages of the project, the analysis can be used to identify the building elements that have the largest impact and where optimization can be effective.

We also prepare CO2 impact analyzes comparing the demolition of an existing building and the construction of a new building vs. the renovation of an existing building.

Principles of low carbon construction

The first analysis should be always whether constructing a new building is necessary or it is possible to renovate an existing building for this purpose.
Analyse the CO2 footprint at the earliest possible stage of the project - that will provide the best possible result at minimum cost.
Maximum energy efficiency per m2 of building area optimizes CO2 footprint during the operation of the building
When optimizing embodied carbon, a simple rule generally applies - the lighter the building, the lower the carbon footprint.
In the case of concrete structures, the amount of material should be optimized and concrete and reinforcement with the lowest possible carbon footprint should be chosen. For example, if possible, choose cement that uses alternative constituents instead of Portland cement, choose reinforcement that is made from 100% recycled steel.
Maximize the amount of recycled materials in building design.
Maximize the use of materials produced from renewable resources in building design.
Design a building so that materials / products can be easily disassembled, easily repaired and reused (Design for Disassembly)
Choose materials / products that can be recycled and do not require a lot of energy to be recycled.
Design the building in such a way that its function can be changed in the future if necessary.