Designing for Net Zero Carbon
With 39% of global emissions coming from buildings and their construction, we need to decarbonise the way we design and build to bring our emissions down to meet net zero targets.
To do this, urgent and ambitious action is required and we, as engineers, architects and consultants have an important role to play.
Achieving Net Zero Carbon through Design
Low carbon solutions sit at the heart of our design approach.
Following our seven stage pathway, we design whole life, carbon neutral projects for our clients.
Stage 1: Set Strategy and Define Brief
Early commitment to Net Zero Carbon is vital for success.
In the early stages, we work with the project team to:
- Set carbon reduction targets
- Secure leadership commitment
- Appoint a Carbon Champion
- Challenge and agree the project brief
Aligned with RIBA Stage 1
Stage 2: Concept Design
With targets set and commitment across the board, the Sustainability Concept can start to take shape.
Our concept design:
- Aligns with wider sustainability strategies
- Considers the whole project lifecycle.
Aligned with RIBA Stage 2
Stage 3: Measure and reduce carbon using Life Cycle Assessment
We use our concept design to complete a Carbon Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to:
- Include embodied and operational carbon reduction targets
- Determine if offsetting is needed.
Aligned with RIBA Stage 3
Stage 4: Design and Collaboration
Using the LCA, we develop the detailed design to achieve the agreed targets.
Where possible, we integrate BIM, detailing information on materials and systems, to give owners and occupiers valuable insight into the operation of their building.
Aligned with RIBA Stage 4
Stage 5: Manage Carbon in Construction
We monitor the carbon impact through construction and recommend regular reporting to verify low carbon targets are being met as the design evolves.
Aligned with RIBA Stage 5
Stage 6: Handover
The journey to Net Zero doesn’t end once the construction phase is complete.
A detailed handover is important to ensure that carbon management is optimised moving forward.
Aligned with RIBA Stage 6
Stage 7: Monitor and report: Performance in use
Annual monitoring and reporting will be required across a buildings life span.
On completion, we ensure carbon performance requirements are factored into facilities management and asset management strategies.
Aligned with RIBA Stage 7
Explore projects
"Outstanding" BREEAM achievement at One Trinity Green
View project »
How we met highly ambitious energy and sustainability targets for Lot 3, North West Cambridge
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Energy assessments for the Atrium Building
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BREEAM In-Use assessment secures Excellent and Outstanding rankings for Kings Place, London
View project »
AMRC Factory 2050
View project »
Rochdale Municipal Office
View project »-
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Jen Hamilton
Net Zero Carbon Lead - Consulting UK & Ireland T: +44 (0) 113 220 6190 Email
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