The conversation about sustainable construction is rapidly evolving, and it’s no longer just a buzzword in the media. Recently, I attended the passive house hui in Christchurch, where the looming changes in the building code took centre stage. One key topic that echoed throughout the event was the imperative shift towards reducing our carbon footprint.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE) has unveiled a pivotal document, “Whole of Life Embodied Carbon Assessment,” outlining the methodologies that will shape our future construction landscape. It’s a pivotal step, aligning us with international standards that every company will soon need to comply with.
Whole of Life Embodied Carbon Assessment
These diagrams illustrate this using the MBIEs module framework for life cycle stages. Emissions occurring at each life cycle stage are accounted for in a ‘module’, e.g. A1, B3, C4 etc.
But what does “carbon footprint” really mean in construction, and how is it calculated? It’s a multifaceted evaluation encompassing several critical considerations.
Firstly, it involves analysing the raw materials used in a product, understanding the energy consumed in transporting these materials to manufacturing facilities, and then the energy expenditure during the manufacturing process itself. And that’s just the start. Once these materials leave the factory and head to the building site, there’s a calculation for the energy used in transport. The construction and installation phases are evaluated next, followed by ongoing considerations like material use, maintenance, repairs, and even the eventual end-of-life stage, including deconstruction, waste processing, and disposal.
This comprehensive approach means we’ll witness changes in the construction industry. Every product will soon come with an environmental product declaration, guiding us towards more sustainable choices.
It’s important to note that while this document addresses embodied carbon, there’s another facet: the building’s operational carbon—the energy it consumes—which falls under a separate category.
The complexity might seem overwhelming initially, but it’s undoubtedly the path forward. Embracing these changes will not only benefit our environment but also ensure a better world for generations to come.
Now, some might argue that this shift will inflate housing prices. However, it’s crucial to consider the bigger picture. Are we solely focusing on the immediate building costs, or are we neglecting the long-term running costs? Making environmentally conscious decisions might require a bit more upfront investment, but it swiftly proves to be the more cost-effective alternative.
Let me illustrate: Constructing an Energy Efficient house might seem pricier initially (although smart design choices can mitigate this), but it rapidly becomes the cheaper option. Moreover, these houses offer not just economic benefits but also improved health and comfort. Clients often realise the difference when they wake up in the heart of winter, oblivious to the cold until they step outside.
This impending change isn’t just a shift in regulations—it’s an opportunity. It’s an opportunity to create sustainable, healthier, and more cost-efficient living spaces. By embracing these alterations, we’re not just constructing buildings; we’re shaping a better, more sustainable future.
