What is Net Zero Carbon Building?
In recent years, the concept of net zero-carbon building has gained significant traction among developers, architects, and policymakers aiming to combat climate change.
A net zero carbon building is designed to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, aiming to achieve a balance between the carbon emitted and the carbon offset. This approach is crucial as the building sector accounts for approximately 39% of global CO2 emissions.
In this blog, we will explore the standards, characteristics, and strategic actions necessary to achieve net zero-carbon buildings.
What is a net zero-carbon building?
A net zero-carbon building is designed to produce no net carbon emissions throughout its construction or operation. This means that the total amount of carbon dioxide emissions released during its construction and use is minimized, and any remaining emissions are balanced by renewable energy generation or other carbon offset measures.
Net Zero Carbon Standards
Several standards have emerged to define and regulate net zero carbon buildings.
These standards vary by country and are designed to align with broader climate goals. Typically, they focus on minimizing energy consumption and maximizing energy efficiency, while supporting the balance of any remaining emissions with renewable energy contributions or carbon offsets.
Effective implementation of these standards not only helps reduce carbon emissions but also paves the way for sustainable development in the construction industry.
Multiple organizations have developed comprehensive frameworks. These standards ensure consistency across design and construction, emphasizing renewable energy generation, reduced carbon emissions, and sustainable practices throughout the building's life cycle.
These bodies include:
In 2019, the UK Green Building Council proposed two definitions of ‘net zero carbon buildings’:
Net zero carbon: Construction
“When the amount of carbon emissions associated with a building’s product and construction stages up to practical completion is zero or negative, through the use of offsets or the net export of on-site renewable energy.”
Net zero carbon: Operation
“When the amount of carbon emissions associated with the building’s operational energy on an annual basis is zero or negative. A net zero carbon building is highly energy efficient and powered from on-site and/or off-site renewable energy sources, with any remaining carbon balance offset.”
Characteristics and Other Requirements of Net Zero Carbon Buildings
Net zero carbon buildings are distinguished by several key characteristics:
Embodied Carbon Reduction: Using sustainable materials with lower carbon footprints reduces emissions from construction and renovation.
Energy Efficiency:
They maximize energy efficiency through design, materials, and technology. This includes insulation, advanced lighting systems, and energy-efficient HVAC systems.
On-site Renewable Energy Production:
Generating renewable energy on-site is critical, using solar panels, wind turbines, or geothermal systems. In London, The Forge – a net zero carbon building per UK Green Building Council’s framework – features 107 PV panels on its roof, helping to power the all-electric building.
Off-site Renewable Energy:
In cases where on-site generation isn't feasible, procuring renewable energy from off-site sources is essential.
Efficient Building Management Systems:
Advanced building management systems optimize energy consumption and identify potential areas of waste.
Continuous Monitoring and Reporting:
These buildings maintain transparency by consistently monitoring and reporting their energy consumption and generation. For example, The Unisphere in Maryland – the world’s largest net zero carbon building – features thousands of sensors which feed into a central computer, allowing minute and constant changes in the building’s operation.
In 2023, Partanna showcased the world’s first carbon negative home. Constructed with Partanna Concrete, the 1250 sq ft home removed or abated -186.2 tonnes of CO2.
What Do We Need to Do to Get Net Zero Carbon Buildings?
Achieving net zero carbon buildings requires strategic planning, investment, and collaboration. Here are key focus areas:
Focus on the Full Life Cycle of a Building
A comprehensive approach considers emissions throughout the building's life cycle. This includes sourcing raw materials, construction, operations, and eventual demolition or repurposing. Sustainable sourcing of materials, modular designs, and adaptive reuse are integral strategies.
Measure Carbon Use
Accurate carbon measurement is essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure accountability. Technologies like smart meters, building management systems, and carbon accounting software provide real-time data. Additionally, standardized frameworks help assess embodied carbon and operational emissions consistently.
Ensure Technology and Workforce Growth
Transitioning to net zero carbon buildings requires a skilled workforce knowledgeable in sustainable construction, renewable energy systems, and building management technology. Supporting workforce development through training and certification programs is vital. Innovation in technology like energy storage, efficient HVAC systems, and building automation will also play a crucial role.
In summary, net zero carbon buildings represent the future of sustainable construction. By adhering to international standards, reducing embodied carbon, and nurturing a skilled workforce, we can move closer to achieving a carbon-neutral built environment.