B
reaking Ground on a Greener Future: BranchPattern Unveils 2024 Embodied Carbon Benchmark Study
As the industrial real estate sector continues to grow, it's imperative that developers and stakeholders prioritize embodied carbon reduction. This critical component of sustainability accounts for 11% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with the majority occurring in the first year of a building's life. To address this pressing issue, BranchPattern has released its highly anticipated 2024 Embodied Carbon Benchmark Study – Version 2.
In partnership with leading industrial real estate developers, the study evaluates key contributors to embodied carbon and effective strategies for mitigation. The updated research includes data from 94 projects across the country, providing a clearer understanding of how the sector can reduce its environmental impact through improved practices.
A notable finding is that the average embodied carbon intensity (ECI) of U.S. industrial core and shell buildings decreased from 23 kg CO2e/ft² to 22 kg CO2e/ft² in the past year, reflecting progress and greater attention on embodied carbon from developers, designers, and manufacturers.
The study reveals primary emission sources like concrete use and site pavement processes, guiding industry stakeholders committed to reducing their projects' embodied carbon footprint. BranchPattern outlines best practices such as targeted material selection and sustainably-minded design innovations to support this goal.
A significant expansion of the study incorporates the impacts of site work on GHG emissions, increasing the average ECI to 32.1 kg CO2e/ft². This additional 10.1 kg CO2e/ft² is attributed to factors detailed in the study, predominantly site paving outside the scope of typical Whole Building Life Cycle Assessments.
"At BranchPattern, we're redefining the way we approach and redress the carbon balance in the built environment," said Kristy Walson, Principal at BranchPattern. "In this rapidly evolving landscape of sustainable design and construction, our study provides critical data for one of the fastest-growing sectors in real estate."
The 2024 Benchmark Study sets the stage for industry-wide adoption of sustainability practices that will help reduce carbon footprints and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change. With actionable insights and measurable benchmarks, this report is a crucial step towards creating a more sustainable future for all.
Link to report: https://www.branchpattern.com/white-papers/industrial-embodied-carbon-benchmark
About BranchPattern
BranchPattern is a building consultancy dedicated to creating Better Built Environments. Our team of Professional Engineers, Registered Architects, and Building Scientists focuses on implementing programs and solutions to optimize human experience and environmental stewardship. The firm provides broad expertise to support the sustainability goals of the Commercial Real Estate Industry throughout North America, South America, and Europe.
For more information, please visit www.branchpattern.com.
