Dual Life Cycle Assessment for Buildings

This report presents a dual life cycle assessment (LCA) method aimed at minimizing upfront CO₂ emissions in building projects while ensuring material usage is not overspent. The report outlines the importance of assessing a building's CO₂ emissions throughout its lifecycle, particularly in the context of the global climate crisis. It details the dual LCA method, which incorporates biogenic carbon sequestration from wood and timber products as a negative contribution to the overall emissions calculation. The method is tested on three case projects, with varying results based on the design approach and materials used. The report also discusses the implications of using sustainably sourced materials and the potential increase in emissions if such materials are not utilized. Furthermore, it highlights the limitations of existing LCA methods in Denmark, particularly the BR18 benchmark, and suggests that alternative methods may better support climate-conscious decision-making in building design.