BRE IP5/11 PDF

The terms ‘carbon footprinting' and ‘carbon labelling' are in common use in the construction industry, but can be confused and misinterpreted. This Information Paper defines the terms in the context of construction products, and outlines the life-cycle assessment principles that underpin them. This is followed by a review of associated standards, codes, other schemes and resources. The use of carbon footprinting and labelling in the construction industry is then considered, along with relevant organisations, products and construction specifications, and ‘whole building' assessment.

This Information Paper is intended to be a resource for architects, specifiers, constructors, manufacturers, suppliers, academics and regulators so that better-informed decisions can be made about construction products.