Embodied carbon in commercial office buildings: Lessons learned from Sri Lanka

Growing concerns over the importance of reducing embodied carbon (EC1) buildings have led to a greater focus on EC-related research and policymaking. Nevertheless, Sri Lankan building sector is currently lagging behind this issue. While few studies been conducted EC impacts different buildings, further needed impact estimation in order inform policies guidelines reduction, with assessment or being main driver towards reduction. Thus, study aims present, evaluate, discuss methodology results drawn from twenty case Lanka, including low-, medium-, high-rise office buildings. The indicated that extent ranged between 384.45 677.39 kgCO2e/m2. average each category was valued at 522.18 kgCO2e/m2 (low-rise buildings), 457.85 (medium rise), 567.51kgCO2e/m2 (high-rise). Irrespective category, substructure, frame, upper floors, external walls were identified as critical elements, accounting for about 85–95% overall EC. Internal partitions, stairs ramps, roof elements insignificant contributing less than 20% This revealed some practical indications optimal reduction strategies Importantly, work provided quantitative information enables decision-makers make decisions Lanka.