Analysis of CO2 emissions in the construction phase of single-family detached houses

Abstract

Within the European Union (EU), the implementation of strategies for smart, sustainable, and inclusive economic growth is a major priority. Sustainable growth is summarized in the following objectives for 2020: (i) 20% reduction in EU greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 levels; (ii) 20% energy consumption from renewable resources; (iii) 20% reduction in EU energy consumption by improving energy efficiency in member states. Within this context, this research analyzes the environmental impact of CO2 emissions in building construction in the following Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) processes: (A1) raw material supply; (A2) transport; (A3) manufacturing; (A4) transport; (A5) construction/ installation on-site processes. In the case of a single-family detached house, the value obtained was 385 kg CO2/m2 of the surface area of this building type. The distribution of these emissions among the construction work units was also obtained. © 2014 Elsevier B.V.