Understanding embodied carbon
Embodied carbon refers to the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the entire lifecycle of materials and products. From extraction and manufacturing, to transport, installation and disposal. In the built environment, it represents a significant share of a building’s overall carbon footprint.
While operational emissions have long been the focus of decarbonisation efforts, embodied carbon now plays an increasingly important role in the drive to reach Net Zero. As energy systems become cleaner, the proportion of carbon emissions linked to materials and construction rises, making it vital to address embodied carbon at every stage of design and delivery.
Why it matters
Globally, buildings are responsible for around 39% of greenhouse gas emissions. One third of these are embodied, embedded in the materials, products and processes used in construction and fit-out. From concrete and steel to mechanical systems and pipework, every component carries a carbon cost.
To tackle this challenge, we need to shift how we design, specify and select building systems. That means choosing lower-carbon alternatives, reusing materials where possible and demanding transparency from manufacturers through Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).
CIBSE’s expertise and knowledge: TM65 guidance and beyond
CIBSE is leading the way in providing practical tools and technical guidance to help engineers, designers and consultants measure and reduce embodied carbon in building services systems all over the world.
- TM65: CIBSE’s Technical Memorandum 65 outlines a methodology for estimating embodied carbon in mechanical, electrical and public health (MEP) systems. It supports professionals in calculating carbon impacts even when full EPDs are not available.
- TM65.1 and TM65.2: Provide further guidance for manufacturers and consultants, including best practice in data reporting and assessing complex systems.
- Digital tools and templates: Available to help apply TM65 calculations in real-world projects.
Let’s take action. Together
Reducing embodied carbon is no longer optional but essential to delivering genuinely low-carbon buildings and meeting climate targets. Whether you're specifying a single product or delivering a full project, CIBSE provides the knowledge and tools to make informed, responsible decisions.
Let’s take the first step together.
Embodied Carbon Infographic
What is Embodied Carbon?
Watch this CIBSE video to explore what Embodied Carbon is and why it matters for the built environment. Discover how even small, everyday choices, whether in design, construction, product selection or daily life, can make a meaningful difference in reducing carbon emissions. Learn how CIBSE, as the global authoritative voice in building services engineering, is supporting the industry with practical guidance, innovative strategies and resources to help reach Net Zero targets
