Embodied Carbon of Buildings and Infrastructure

Addressing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from buildings and infrastructure is a key component of the global fight against climate change.

In addition to the current focus on operational GHG emissions, this increasingly involves considering embodied GHG emissions (commonly referred to as “embodied carbon”). Embodied carbon in construction refers to the GHG emissions associated with the manufacturing, maintenance, and decommissioning of a structure.

Grandview Heights Aquatic Centre
Photo credit: Ema Peter
Embodied Carbon of Buildings Infrastructure Report

The findings and recommendations in this report are based on a review of international policies and programs that are intended to reduce embodied GHG emissions of buildings and infrastructure projects over their life cycle.