Sustainability Report
Embodied carbon
The project is pre-certified for DGNB Gold. DGNB (German Sustainable Building Council) is a German-based sustainability certification system that is also used internationally, particularly in Denmark. The "Gold" rating signifies a high level of sustainability across a broad range of criteria.
The total embodied carbon, as calculated by Danish LCA methods for Phases A1 to A3, is -6.453 kg CO2-eq./m². The primary strategy for reducing embodied carbon is the use of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) in the load-bearing structures. The project emphasizes this choice of material for its potential to lower CO2 emissions in comparison to traditional materials like concrete and steel. Additionally, the architects utilized Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) calculations as a guide during the design process to effectively minimize the building's carbon footprint.
Operational Emissions / Energy
The design relies on passive solutions, such as the use of many windows and skylights to maximize natural light, which reduces the need for artificial lighting and lowers electricity consumption.
Service and maintenance emissions
Unlike traditional building materials that may require frequent replacement or extensive repairs, CLT is engineered for longevity. This reduces the frequency of maintenance activities, which often contribute to higher levels of greenhouse gas emissions and resource consumption. The reduced need for maintenance not only contributes to lower operational costs but also supports sustainability goals by decreasing the overall environmental impact associated with building upkeep. Less frequent maintenance means fewer trips to the site, reduced use of repair materials, and lower emissions from transportation and machinery. So in this project, the use of CLT represents a proactive approach to sustainable building practices, promoting both environmental responsibility and economic efficiency.
Afterlife
The project team took into account principles of adaptive reuse and the circular economy, providing a compelling example of how these concepts can be effectively implemented. One notable instance of repurposing involved the roof of the original shed. The team successfully reused various elements, including the roofing felt, gutters, and lighting, for the newly constructed shed. This approach was not only more environmentally friendly but also resulted in significant cost savings. The expenses were reduced to one-fifth of the original budget, showcasing the economic viability of reusing materials. To facilitate this, the team specifically redesigned the new shed to accommodate the salvaged roof components, demonstrating a thoughtful integration of sustainable practices into the project.
Key products in low carbon design
