The ideal scenario demonstrates the limit set for 2020 under the contraction and convergence data given the projected rise in population. Studies have shown that all sectors need to be significantly reduced to achieve the target emission levels. A severe change in lifestyles will be required to achieve these targets. The element that indirectly links all of the sectors is the built environment, encompassing local food sources, public transport, closed loop waste recycling or simply a school that is within walking distance.

 

The diagram below illustrates previous data collected from our projects as well as the hypothetical "ideal" scenario to be achieved for 2020.

 

Some of the projects' "buildings" segment falls to the left of the Y axis. This shows that in these cases, these projects' buildings generate more energy than they use (even after embodied carbon is taken into account). This therefore means that this "surplus" can be used to offset other parts of that resident's life, such as transport or services.

 

The climate neutral buildings concept provides a rigorous whole life carbon footprinting methodology. This shows how careful building and urban design becomes the mechanism that allows the other sectors to function and obtain the targets required.

All the technologies described have been developed by ZEDfactory with industry partners over decades. We have found that working with our supply chain consistently over a long time makes better, lower cost construction components that fit together easily and minimise the risk inherent in introducing new technologies into a conservative construction industry. We offer these products as options to clients, and they often help us deliver a far higher specification given tight budgets. We encourage other teams to specify these products, as larger orders for the manufacturers reduces costs for everyone. We also welcome new manufacturers wishing to participate in this low carbon supply chain – either regionally or internationally.

 

We also try hard to measure the environmental footprint of our supply chain, wherever possible accounting for regional production and site specific transportation strategies. We think its important to manufacture bulk materials locally and use local labour for both manufacture and site erection at the same time as creating jobs, and stimulating the local economy. However components that are compact and high technology often require lager investments in centralised production facilities and may have to travel some distance by sea.