How to Cut Building Carbon Before It’s Built

Energy efficiency begins with passive design - optimising building orientation, natural ventilation, insulation, and window glazing to minimise the need for mechanical heating and cooling. Efficient HVAC systems, LED lighting, daylight sensors, occupancy controls, and programmable timers further reduce energy consumption. Regular monitoring and adjustment of operational settings ensures systems run efficiently according to seasonal or occupancy changes. Maintenance programmes and occupant behaviour also play a critical role, with simple strategies such as ventilating overnight or using shading helping reduce energy demand naturally.

Embodied carbon refers to the total CO₂ emissions released during the extraction, manufacturing, transport, and installation of building materials.

Renewable energy can further decarbonise buildings once efficiency and material impacts are addressed. Key approaches include solar panels (PV) and battery storage to generate and store electricity for on-site use, reducing reliance on the grid. Green roofs provide insulation and lower cooling demand while supporting biodiversity. Wind and geothermal systems offer efficient, low-maintenance energy solutions. Local or district energy microgrids draw energy from nearby renewable sources, improve resilience, and support community-level energy efficiency.