Carbon Footprint Assessment of a 300-Square-Meter Residential House: A Comparison Between Conventional Building Materials and Low-Carbon Materials

Abstract

This research aims to evaluate the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the primary materials used in constructing a 300 square meter residential house. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology was employed, following the carbon footprint evaluation framework within a Cradle-to-Gate approach. This approach encompasses the entire process from raw material acquisition through construction material production, excluding the transportation of materials to the construction site, their usage, and disposal after the materials have completed their life cycle.

The research focused on four major construction categories: structural works, architectural works, plumbing systems, and electrical systems. Data were sourced from a residential construction project located in Khlong Luang District, Pathum Thani Province. The findings reveal that conventional construction materials emitted a total of 114,564.65 kilograms of CO₂ equivalent (kgCO₂e), while low-carbon materials reduced emissions to 102,171.77 kgCO₂e, representing a decrease of 12,392.88 kgCO₂e, or 10.82%. However, the use of low-carbon materials resulted in a rise in construction costs, from 1,806,457.33 THB to 1,918,851.22 THB, an increase of 112,393.89 THB, or 6.22%.

The results of this research provide valuable data for assessing the environmental impacts within the construction industry. It also serves as a guide to promote the adoption of environmentally friendly construction materials, supporting governmental policies on sustainable development, and encouraging the integration of more sustainable practices within the sector.