Computationally Integrated Embodied Carbon Performance Tools for Structural Design Stages

In today’s context of climate emergency, designers play a crucial role in mitigating the emissions associated with the construction industry. This responsibility weighs even more heavily on structural engineers given that structures are estimated to contribute up to 65% of a building’s upfront embodied carbon. The challenge remains in being able to monitor embodied carbon through the design evolution and being able to provide effective feedback to steer decision making towards low-carbon solutions. Existing tools on the market often lack parametric and customization capabilities, robust user interfaces for clear communications of results, and seamless interoperability between design environments. The process detailed in this paper showcases a streamlined approach to embodied carbon calculations by enhancing design software capabilities, such as Rhino/Grasshopper and Revit, with the Smart Massing Tool (SMT) and the ECO2 tool, respectively. The SMT facilitates early-stage analysis allowing for quick exploration and comparison of design options while the ECO2 tool enables detailed embodied carbon calculations drawing data directly from BIM models. The development of the tools represents a significant step towards integrating sustainability considerations into structural design processes, empowering engineers to design low carbon buildings.