Embodied Carbon (ECO2)

ECO₂ is the embodied carbon dioxide associated with manufacture of the product and it’s constituents. It is only one part of whole-life CO₂ impact. Whole-life CO₂ impact is what should matter for designers. The durability of masonry means that the period over which the impact of the product is considered should be in excess of 100 years. Furthermore during the operational phase masonry can deliver CO₂ savings in heating and cooling (see Thermal Mass).

Every effort is made to reduce ECO₂ by producers. By choosing masonry, designers can also help minimise CO₂ emissions by choosing long-lasting materials. And for designers who maximise the use of thermal mass there is further reduction of CO₂ emissions.

Producers have minimised ECO₂ through a range of factory energy initiatives and their choice of mix of constituents. The cement industry has played a major role by reducing the ECO₂ of their products, as shown in their annual performance report.