Carbon Designer 3D low results

Buildings Assessments Carbon Designer 3D
1

Hi there,

I have been modelling different versions of a residential building with different structural systems in Carbon Design 3D. I have noticed that the results in GWP/m2 are always very low, around 400-500 kgCO2eq/m2, even using prefabricated concrete structure (which has the highest impact in GWP). I find these values impressively low, since the Spanish government has established an orientative limit at 670 kgCO2eq/m2. Maybe someone could explain me why they are so low? Are the materials chosen very low impact, or should I check the quantities calculated?

Thanks in advance,
Maria Karatsiompani

2

I also have the same feeling for Italian buildings.
Does the tool consider also A4 and A5 stages?

Thank you!
Looking forward to hearing from you.

3

Hello Maria,

The CD3D values are meant to be used for target setting in absence of any other design documentation. For this reason, they should not be compared against any benchmark values.

Additionally, CD3D needs to be “enhanced” within the main application before being used for presentation or reporting purposes as CD3D does not include:

  • External landscaping
  • construction impacts
  • in use emissions
  • maintenance emissions
  • repair emissions
  • demolition emissions

If you would like to get more info on CD3D you can check out this material on helpcentre and academy:

Hope this clarifies!