Web app displays embodied carbon for Vancouver MURBs

Image courtesy Morrison Hershfield.

Morrison Hershfield’s (MH’s) Embodied Carbon PathFinder is a free web app that allows users to view the embodied carbon implications of different design and material selections for three typical Vancouver multi-unit residential building (MURB) types—stacked townhouse, mid-rise and high-rise—as the construction industry aims for net-zero goals.

As a companion to the Operational Energy PathFinder, which helps users test building design scenarios for operational energy and emissions, the new life-cycle assessment (LCA) tool can create rough estimates in early design phases when a custom study may not yet be feasible. Using both tools together, designers can more quickly understand and, by switching variables, minimize a MURB’s total carbon footprint, from the manufacturing and transportation of building materials and assemblies through construction, operation and disposal.

The LCA model for each MURB archetype includes the complete structure and building envelope above and below grade, all glazing systems, gypsum board inside exterior walls and the parking garage. It excludes ceiling or floor coverings, finish materials, paint, interior walls, mechanical and electrical systems and site components.

MH developed the tool’s data using the Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings, while Open Technologies programmed the visualization software and developed the user interface (UI). The governments of British Columbia and Vancouver provided funding.

There will be a live demonstration of the app on Oct. 25 at 1 p.m. ET. Register here.