Embodied Carbon Reduction Roadmap

Rapid reduction in carbon emissions is critical to meeting our climate goals and mitigating the worst effects of climate change. Embodied carbon, the carbon emissions associated with materials used in the built environment, are estimated to contribute over 10% of all global energy-related carbon emissions. As we work to meet the needs of a growing population, designing infrastructure and buildings with lower embodied carbon will be essential. 

The Embodied Carbon Reduction Roadmap report, authored by Arup for the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), explores policy options to support a wide range of strategies that can be deployed to address embodied carbon across the construction industry. The report focuses on California as a case study due to its track record for setting ambitious climate targets and for starting to adopt progressive embodied carbon policies. 

Using quantifiable data and analysis, the report provides a clear roadmap that highlights the importance of taking both a building-focused and materials-focused approach to embodied carbon policy action.