Embodied/Upfront carbon measurement and benchmarking is in a dynamic state, and a critical goal for the sector is to evolve measurement approaches that allow for consistent, comparable, and reliable benchmarking. MECLA’s first Spotlight of 2023 brought together experts to take a comprehensive look at the current state of play and discuss the opportunities and challenges for the future of measurement. 

The NABERS’ consultation paper on embodied carbon addresses the lack of a consistent method of measurement for embodied emissions in Australia. It is the product of a partnership with Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) and 12 months of collaboration with industry and government across Australia to understand the appetite for a standard for embodied emissions. The paper includes 10 proposals for 5 topic areas that outline how a rating tool, tentatively titled the NABERS Embodied Emissions tool, would measure, verify, and compare embodied emissions in new buildings and major refurbishments.The MECLA WG2 Discussion Paper launched last year aims to document a state of play on the dynamic aspects in all parts of the methods on embodied carbon measurement at the level of materials, whole buildings, and infrastructure.

 The MECLA Spotlight on Measuring Embodied Carbon features presentations on both the NABERS and GBCA papers, as well as a panel discussion among experts from GBCA, NABERS, and MECLA WG2 sub-chairs.

Speakers and Panelists:

• Ivana Brown, Sector Lead – Accelerating Net Zero Buildings at NABERS
• Deejan Ferrao, Manager – Future Focus Rating Tools at GBCA
• Lucy Marsland, Environmental Designer at Atelier Ten
• Caroline Noller, CEO and Founder of The Footprint Company
• Jacqui Bonnitcha, Manager, Sustainable Futures, Integrated Solutions, Lendlease
• George Sfinas, Engagement Manager, Standards Australia