Embodied carbon assessment of structure
An estimate of the embodied carbon in a building's structure, with lower-carbon options compared side by side.
About this service
Embodied carbon is the greenhouse gas released in making, transporting and building the materials in a building, as opposed to the carbon from heating and running it. In a new home or extension, the structure is usually the largest single source, because concrete foundations, steel frames and masonry are carbon-intensive to produce. Our assessment estimates the embodied carbon in your structural scheme and shows where it can be cut.
Some London councils now ask for embodied carbon information at planning, particularly on larger schemes. Even where it is not required, developers and homeowners use the assessment to compare options early, while changing the structure is still easy and cheap. The biggest gains usually come from foundations, floor systems and the choice between steel, concrete, timber and masonry for the main frame.
We calculate carbon for the structural elements using recognised industry methods and material data, then compare alternative schemes side by side so the trade-offs are clear. Every calculation goes through our three-step quality control process, with final sign-off by our Head of Engineering. Where the starting point is an existing building, a structural reuse and retrofit appraisal shows how much carbon is saved by keeping what is already there.
When you need it
- Your planning authority or client asks for embodied carbon figures
- You want to reduce the carbon footprint of a new build or extension
- You're comparing structural options
What's included
- Carbon calculation for the structural scheme
- Comparison of material options
- Recommendations to reduce embodied carbon
How it works
- Define the scopeWe agree which elements are included, typically substructure, frame, floors and roof structure, and which life-cycle stages are covered. If your council has a template or target, we work to it.
- Quantify materialsFrom the structural design or concept drawings, we take off quantities of concrete, steel, reinforcement, timber and masonry, including foundations that early estimates often overlook.
- Calculate and compareWe apply carbon factors to each material and calculate totals for the base scheme and the alternatives, such as a timber frame instead of steel or a lighter foundation solution.
- Recommend reductionsThe report sets out results clearly, highlights the elements with the biggest impact, and recommends practical changes that reduce carbon without compromising structural performance or buildability.
What you receive
Where the biggest structural carbon savings are found
Foundations are frequently the largest carbon item in small and medium London buildings. Deep trench fill or large rafts on clay use a great deal of concrete, and reducing loads from above, or choosing a foundation type better matched to the ground, can make a real difference. Our guide to clay and foundations explains why depths vary. Cement replacements in the concrete mix are another proven route, subject to strength and programme.
Above ground, lighter structures help. Timber frame and cross-laminated timber can cut embodied carbon compared with concrete frames, though they bring different considerations for fire, acoustics and movement. Efficient spans and avoiding unnecessary transfer structures often save as much as switching material. The earlier the assessment happens, the more of these options remain open to the design team.
Frequently asked questions
What is embodied carbon in construction?
Embodied carbon is the total greenhouse gas emitted in producing materials, transporting them, building with them, and later maintaining and disposing of them. It is separate from operational carbon, which comes from heating, lighting and running a building. As new buildings become more energy efficient, embodied carbon makes up a growing share of their total impact.
Do I need an embodied carbon assessment for planning?
It depends on the council and the size of the scheme. Larger London developments often need a whole life-cycle carbon assessment, and some boroughs encourage embodied carbon information on smaller projects too. Check your planning authority's requirements or ask at pre-application stage. Our assessment can provide the structural part of a wider whole life-cycle report.
Is timber always lower carbon than steel or concrete?
Often, but not automatically. Timber stores carbon and usually has lower production emissions, but the outcome depends on where it comes from, how much is used, and what else the design then needs, such as extra fire protection or different foundations. Comparing complete schemes side by side, rather than single materials, gives the honest answer.
How much does an embodied carbon assessment cost?
Our embodied carbon assessment of structure starts from £1,500 + VAT. The fee depends on the size of the building, how developed the structural design is, and how many alternative schemes you want compared. We confirm a fixed fee in writing before any work starts, and our typical turnaround is 10 working days.