New study finds MMC reduces carbon emissions by up to 45%

A new report recently published by the University of Cambridge and Edinburgh Napier University has shown that volumetric, modular construction can reduce carbon emissions by up to 45% compared to traditional construction methods.

Substantial embodied carbon emissions savings were unearthed by academics in a study on a high-rise and a mid-rise modular scheme in the London area.

University academics found that 28,000 tonnes of embodied carbon emissions were saved by using volumetric construction  – the equivalent of the CO₂ absorbed by 1.3m trees in a year.

This is well ahead of industry targets and shows a switch to Modern Methods of Construction could radically reduce the carbon footprint associated with the UK government’s ambitious new scheme to deliver 40 new hospitals by 2030.

Professor Francesco Pomponi of Napier University, said: “This study is a truly comprehensive and robust life cycle assessment of the modular solution.”

Embodied carbon, the CO₂ produced during the design, construction and decommissioning phases of a development, are slashed because buildings require lower volumes of carbon-intensive products such as concrete and steel.

The report, titled “Life Cycle Assessments of The Valentine, Gants Hill, UK and George Street, Croydon, UK” also shows emissions were lower because indirect carbon emissions from deliveries and on-site workers are also reduced.

Dr Tim Forman, senior research associate at University of Cambridge, said: “Buildings are responsible for approximately 40% of global energy-related carbon emissions, and there is an urgent need to reduce the carbon intensity of construction and buildings in use.

“As buildings become more energy efficient in operation, reducing the carbon associated with construction — including the production and transportation of materials and site activities – and their end of life is becoming increasingly significant.

“This study underscores the fundamental importance of quantifying carbon in construction and across a building’s life cycle.”

Link to original article here – https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2022/06/06/factory-made-homes-cut-carbon-emissions-by-45/