Life cycle assessment and carbon footprint of multistorey timber buildings compared with steel and concrete buildings

Authors: Andrew Buchanan, Stephen John, Simon Love
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 2012, Issue N.Z.J.For. 57(4) 2013, pp 9-18, Jan 2013
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

Abstract: Abstract Life cycle assessments are used to compare the environmental effects of energy and global warming potential or carbon footprint of a three-storey timber building with alternative concrete, steel and low-energy timber buildings. The environmental effects are assessed with reference to greenhouse gas emissions, leading to global warming potential. Differences from previous studies are explored. A material carbon footprint calculation is proposed for possible inclusion in green building rating schemes, to compare the environmental impacts of building materials