Think circular–Reducing embodied carbon through materials selection

Material choices can affect both the environmental conditions and the human health impacts of buildings. Decision making can be improved through greater transparency and a broader view of materials impact. With more architects and engineers recognising the impacts of global climate change, a renewed focus on carbon emissions from buildings is underway. Material choices in the built environment have significant impacts on both the building’s carbon emissions and the health of building occupants. As the operational carbon in buildings falls through improved efficiencies and design, the amount of embodied carbon released from the extraction, manufacturing, and transportation of materials and products is becoming relatively more significant. Through the selection of materials, designers can reduce the overall carbon emissions of buildings while maintaining high standards for occupant health.