What is Embodied Carbon?
Embodied carbon is the total greenhouse gas emissions associated with a material, product, or construction throughout its lifecycle. Unlike operational carbon, which is emitted during a building’s use, embodied carbon is locked in from the start, making it a crucial factor in decarbonisation efforts.
It includes emissions from:
- Raw material extraction – Mining, quarrying, and harvesting resources
- Manufacturing and processing – Transforming raw materials into products
- Transportation – Moving materials and equipment to the site
- Installation & construction – Assembling products into buildings
- Maintenance & repair – Keeping systems operational over time
- Demolition & disposal – Managing waste and recycling materials at end-of-life
Why Embodied Carbon Matters
Embodied carbon plays a major role in reducing overall emissions in the built environment. Here’s why it’s important:
Immediate Impact
Unlike operational carbon, which accumulates over time, embodied carbon is released upfront. Reducing it from the design stage is crucial
Significant Contribution
In energy-efficient buildings, embodied carbon can exceed operational emissions.
Growing Importance
As operational emissions decrease due to energy efficiency and renewable energy, embodied carbon becomes a larger share of total emissions.
Reducing Embodied Carbon in Heating Systems
Choosing the right materials and design approach is key to cutting embodied carbon in heating systems.
Material selection
Opt for low-carbon materials that offer high performance with lower environmental impact
Efficient heat exchangers
Copper and aluminium remain the best choices due to their high efficiency, recyclability, and long lifespan
Avoid plastic-based alternatives
While some materials may appear more sustainable, plastics reduce heat transfer efficiency and increase energy demands on pumping and fans
Take Action on Embodied Carbon
Embodied carbon is a critical factor in achieving net-zero goals. By focusing on material choices, efficient designs, and sustainable practices, we can lower carbon footprints and build a more sustainable future.
Want to learn more?
Our CIBSE-approved CPD covers embodied carbon and sustainable heating system design in detail. Contact Ben Sword to book your session today!
