A free open-source app that estimates the embodied carbon in a structure will be launched next week.
The app is named the Structural Carbon Tool and is a collaboration between structural and civils consultancy Elliott Wood and the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE).
The Excel-based tool enables users to quickly estimate the embodied carbon in their structure and allows comparison of up to six options at once. It can be used to locate embodied carbon hotspots in a design, allowing a focused approach to reducing it.
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The tool is aligned with BS EN 15978, BS EN 15804 and the RICS professional statement Whole life carbon assessment for the built environment. Based on the principles set out in IStructE’s How to calculate embodied carbon, the tool is also aligned with the SCORS rating system proposed in 2020 by the Institution’s Climate Emergency Task Group and includes the LETI & RIBA benchmarks.
“The construction industry needs more action on sustainability and at Elliott Wood we are committed to effecting immediate change. We’re releasing The Structural Carbon Tool for free as we want it in the hands of as many people in the built environment as possible,” said Penny Gowler, associate director at Elliott Wood.
“With IStructE’s backing, the tool can be made readily accessible and available to the largest possible group of professional structural engineers. We hope embodied carbon and the damage it does to the planet via construction can be better assessed and tackled head on.”
Will Arnold, head of climate action at IStructE, added: “Structural engineers are responsible for around 10% of all global greenhouse gas emissions. We will leave a lasting impact on the world that we give to the next generation, and it is up to each of us to decide what our legacy will look like. The Structural Carbon Tool will help engineers to make positive choices in their work.”
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