Publication

Embodied carbon in Central London

This first-of-its-kind study by Arup and the London Property Alliance presents a data-led benchmarking of upfront embodied carbon across central London office developments. Using project-level evidence to define current performance it demonstrates progression in the industry and identifies the changes needed to achieve further reductions.

Last updated: July 2026

Embodied carbon is reshaping how London offices are built but what does 'good' now look like? As the industry responds, the need to benchmark progress and align expectations is becoming critical to accelerating change.

Developed by Arup and the London Property Alliance, the research assessed project-level data from 76 major office developments to establish a comprehensive, evidence-based view of upfront embodied carbon performance in central London.

The analysis establishes clear benchmarks, provides a shared understanding of current performance and the scale of change required to achieve net zero. At the same time, it highlights a shifting challenge: as early gains are realised, further reductions will depend on deeper changes across design, material supply and policy frameworks.

For the first time, central London office developers have access to industry-wide data to support more informed, consistent decision-making. The report is designed as a practical resource for developers, designers, policymakers and investors seeking to accelerate low-carbon outcomes with confidence.