Embodied carbon

Low Carbon

Approximately 250 kg CO₂-eq/m² reduction compared with conventional construction, exceeding the 30% reduction threshold generally associated with low-carbon buildings.

Other strategies include:

Material substitution

- Replacement of conventional steel framing with LVL and CLT.

- Reduced use of concrete and steel.

Hybrid structural optimization

- Concrete used only where required for fire resistance, weather protection, and lateral stability.

- Timber used for primary structural components.

Carbon-efficient structural system

- Engineered timber components store biogenic carbon and generally require less manufacturing energy than steel and concrete.

Replicable small-site strategy

- Demonstrates that lower-carbon timber construction can be applied to typical urban parcels rather than only large-scale developments.

Service and maintenance emissions

Efficient

Several aspects of the design can significantly reduce long-term maintenance emissions. One key feature is the use of durable perimeter construction, where concrete walls protect timber elements from weather exposure. This design choice helps maintain the integrity of the wood over time. 

Additionally, material efficiency plays a crucial role by utilizing durable materials only where necessary, thereby minimizing future replacement cycles. This careful selection of materials contributes to the overall sustainability of the structure.

Moreover, adopting a hybrid approach can enhance the lifespan of the structural timber, as it limits exposure to moisture and other external conditions. By safeguarding the timber, the building can remain functional for a longer period.

Finally, the integration of a simplified structural system, which combines a concrete core with minimal steel bracing, reduces material complexity. This simplification not only optimizes the use of resources but also streamlines maintenance over the building's lifetime, contributing to both efficiency and sustainability.

Afterlife

Certain elements in the project suggest the possibility of future disassembly:

- Engineered Timber Components: LVL and CLT components have the potential for reuse.

- Steel Cross Bracing: Steel components can be dismantled and recycled.

- Hybrid Construction: Focusing on concrete in the core and perimeter may allow for the selective deconstruction of timber elements.

Key products in low carbon design

NelsonPine® LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber)
CO2
NelsonPine® LVL (Laminated Ven...
Nelson Pine Industries ltd (NPIL)
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