Designing for net zero

Early basic design decisions such as building orientation can have a profound impact on the building’s Carbon performance. Step 1 encourages early consideration of key criteria. 

The facade typically accounts for 13%  of a Building’s Embodied Carbon and significantly impacts on Operational Carbon through heat gain or loss. This can be minimised through appropriate analysis and choice of materials.

The choice of materials is fundamental to the embodied and whole life carbon of a building and requires detailed consideration along with  other key design criteria.  An approach of selecting  the right low carbon materials, minimising the quantity of those materials and optimising their performance.

It is understood that achieving net zero carbon is a challenging undertaking and to achieve it will require a commitment  to meeting demanding performance targets. The targets set must be realistic and appropriate for the  project, benchmarked against industry standards.

Overspecified and oversized systems are inefficient to own and operate leading to a higher carbon cost. Optimising the systems starts at design stage through challenging design standards, understanding intended use and the tenant’s requirements. Adopting “a same as usual” approach will  not achieve the carbon outcomes required. 

A building will only achieve a net zero carbon outcome through the combined efforts of a Landlord and its tenants. Supporting tenants in minimising fit out requirements together with optimising use of the base systems is essential.

An essential part of achieving net zero carbon is understanding how building systems are performing and using energy. Capturing Data and using it to optimise performance, testing proposed changes and planning maintenance  will be essential.

To achieve net zero carbon will require changes to our buildings, systems and systems performance, this will require explanation and engagement with building users and stakeholders for them to understand and appreciate  the wider benefits.

A vital part of achieving net zero carbon will be the adoption of renewable energy integrated with the design and form of the building. Where renewables are provided the benefits should be clear and users engaged with its performance and operation.

An essential part of the drive to net zero carbon will be the ability to see how the Building is performing and sharing that information. Through sharing, best practice  can be developed, creating a circle of continuous improvement to the benefit of all.