Embodied carbon

Low Carbon
  • Materials & Construction:

    • Use of deep concrete piles for foundations, concrete columns and retaining walls for structural support.

    • Lightweight steel roof trusses with triangular frameworks for stability.

    • Fiber cement green roof tiles with high thermal insulation reduce energy demand.

    • Local wood lattices and bamboo ceilings used extensively for interior and exterior elements. Bamboo treated with boric acid for durability; wood sourced regionally.

    • Ceramic mosaic tiles representing the Pakal Mask produced by local artisans.

  • Design Considerations:

    • Material selection focused on durability and local availability, minimizing transportation-related carbon.

    • Combination of materials in the regional context reduces environmental impact.

Operational Emissions / Energy

Efficient
  • Passive Climate Design:

    • Large, sloped roof allows natural ventilation and heat release via thermal chimney effect.

    • Open four-sided layout encourages cross-ventilation.

  • Active Climate Enhancements:

    • A Canadian well system draws cooler subsoil air into the building, improving thermal comfort with minimal energy use.

    • Glazed sections in the canopy act as heat chimneys to enhance airflow.

  • Energy Efficiency:

    • Most public spaces avoid mechanical air conditioning entirely.

    • Roof insulation and green tiles contribute to reduced heat gain and energy demand.

Service and maintenance emissions

Efficient
  • Durable Materials:

    • Fiber cement tiles, treated bamboo, and regional wood minimize maintenance frequency.

    • Anti-mold panels increase the lifespan of interior finishes.

  • Future Maintenance:

    • Design for accessibility to service areas and technical rooms under the platform.

    • Materials with low degradation reduce replacement cycles and associated emissions.