As the construction industry accelerates its efforts to reduce carbon emissions, understanding and addressing embodied carbon—the emissions associated with the production, transportation, and installation of building materials—is becoming crucial. This presentation provides a comprehensive overview of the concept of embodied carbon, exploring its significant role in the lifecycle of construction projects and its impact on the overall carbon footprint of buildings.

Participants will gain a deep understanding of how embodied carbon is embedded within the materials and processes used in construction, and learn how to reduce it through a combination of sustainable material selection, design optimization, and the integration of Passive House principles. The session will also feature a detailed exploration of cutting-edge construction technologies, such as carbon-neutral building materials and advanced manufacturing techniques, that enable a substantial reduction in embodied carbon. Through real-world case studies and insights into both global and domestic policy frameworks, attendees will better understand how sustainability standards are evolving and how these policies shape the design and construction of low-carbon buildings. By the end of the session, participants will have the knowledge and tools to apply these strategies and technologies to their own projects, advancing their goals toward creating energy-efficient, sustainable buildings with a reduced carbon footprint.

Ken Briggs, PE, is a former HVAC engineer and licensed professional engineer with expertise in energy policy and the challenges of the energy transition. A Harvard graduate student studying the geopolitics of energy policy, Ken works with businesses focused on sustainability within the energy and construction sectors. He also contributes thought leadership on topics such as energy transition, technology, and foreign affairs through his blog Current History.

This free presentation will take place on Wednesday, December 18th at 9am PT / 12pm ET and will be followed by a lively Q+A session. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from industry leaders and engage with the PHA community. See you there!