1、Life Cycle Assessments:Delivering True Carbon Reductions and Environmental Benefits in Real Estate and ConstructionS U S T A I N A BI L I T Y R E S E ARCHLCAs in Real Estate&ConstructionSummaryAs the built environment accounts for nearly 40%of global carbon emissions,success in reaching net zero by

2、2050 and mitigating the dire effects of climate change hinges on decarbonizing the sector.Much of our attention has been focused on eliminating emissions associated with operating existing buildings,approximately 80%of which are expected to still be operational in 2050.Yet,as we invest more in build

3、ing materials and technologies to reduce energy use,the proportion of a given buildings lifetime emissions due to its operational energy is declining.Often the majority of emissions now come from constructing and renovating the building,including fitting out interior spaces for various tenants over

4、time.This paper outlines the importance of,and method for,measuring the lifetime environmental impact of a building through a life cycle assessment(LCA).We will look at how this can be applied to carbon emissions and environmental impacts beyond emissions.We introduce the LCA method as a scientific

5、approach for modelling and evaluating environmental impacts and damages,and its potential benefits over the commonly used carbon footprint method.We then describe and classify the industrial applications of the LCA,looking at building certifications(LEED,BREAM and similar standards)as well as regula

6、tions from different countries.Specific examples of LCA results are provided for office buildings in France,with discussion on how this result may vary in other jurisdictions.Finally,we offer a general outlook on the environmental impact of office buildings,in addition to carbon,and why it is import