The focus on minimizing embodied carbon continues to grow in new public sector buildings, especially in educational institutions. These projects often set clear targets for embodied carbon reduction, requiring the project design team to collaborate closely and put in a collective effort to meet those goals.

For a recent mixed-use institutional project, we collaborated closely with the Architect of Record early in the design process (during the Schematic Design Phase to be exact), to optimize the embodied carbon reductions. Strategic adjustments to the parking column layout beneath the tower structure were made, enabling a more streamlined one-way transfer beam system. Together, with the Sustainability Consultant, we studied low-carbon concrete mixes, showing a pathway to achieving an impress 11% reduction in embodied carbon. By addressing these considerations in the Schematic Design Phase, we were able to not only promote environmental sustainability, but also keep the project’s overarching carbon reduction goals on track.

Concrete Mix Optimization

Through adjustments to material specifications and collaboration with the sustainability consultant and Architect of Record, we reduced the embodied carbon in the concrete structure by 11%. This was achieved by strategically maximizing GUL cement and increasing the allowable curing time for concrete mixes. These changes encouraged supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) use and lower cement quantities on an elemental basis without slowing down the construction process.

Parking Column Layout

We made minor layout changes to the parking column layout under the tower at a very early stage to better suit the tower columns and optimize the structure. This allowed us to implement a simpler, more elegant one-way beam system at Level 1, replacing the traditional thicker two-way slab system. As a result, we estimated a reduction of about 780,000 Kg CO2e associated with the concrete structure, which is approximately 3% of the building’s total carbon footprint.

Between the layout changes and proposed mix optimizations, the estimated carbon savings are approximately 5,000 tCO₂e. The is equivelant to the annual household emissions of 1,500 BC residents, or 25,000 hours of air travel.

Together, we can contribute to a more sustainable built environment. If you are interested in sustainability and would like to discuss any of the topics in this article, please get in touch with us at [email protected].

For more information on our sustainability initiatives and to stay updated on our latest projects, visit our website and follow our “OnTrack” blog series.

Written by Helia Javedani