Leading the Way to Sustainable Construction: RICS Launches Second Edition of the Whole Life Carbon Assessment Standard

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is once again setting a significant benchmark in the construction and infrastructure sector. RICS has launched the second edition of its Whole Life Carbon Assessment for the Built Environment (WLCA) standard, a milestone that underscores its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. First published in 2017, the 2023 edition takes this commitment to a global scale, offering an even more advanced understanding of the carbon costs and benefits associated with design choices in construction and infrastructure projects and assets.

_{A Global Perspective on Carbon Assessment}

The introduction of the 2023 edition of the WLCA standard signifies a shift towards a global approach to carbon assessment. The construction and infrastructure industry is among the leading contributors to carbon emissions, and RICS recognises the urgency of addressing this issue on an international level. The standard provides a comprehensive framework for assessing the carbon footprint and environmental impact of design choices made across the world.

_{Advancing Sustainability through Informed Choices}

Design choices in construction and infrastructure projects have a profound impact on the environment. RICS's WLCA standard empowers professionals and stakeholders in the industry to make informed decisions that prioritise sustainability. By quantifying the carbon costs and benefits of different choices, the standard guides the selection of more environmentally friendly design options.

_{Meeting Climate Goals and Regulations}

As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions, the role of the construction and infrastructure sector becomes even more critical. The WLCA standard aligns with global climate goals and regulations, offering a practical and robust framework for achieving environmental targets and reducing the industry's carbon footprint.

_{An Evolved Understanding of Carbon Costs and Benefits}

The 2023 edition of the WLCA standard represents a significant evolution in our understanding of the carbon costs and benefits associated with construction and infrastructure projects. It not only quantifies emissions but also highlights the positive impacts that environmentally responsible choices can have, including long-term cost savings and environmental benefits.

_{Setting a Standard for Sustainable Practices}

RICS's launch of the second edition of the WLCA standard is a testament to the organisation's commitment to promoting sustainability in the industry. By offering a globally applicable framework for carbon assessment, RICS is taking a leading role in shaping the future of sustainable construction and infrastructure.

_Conclusion

The launch of the 2023 edition of the WLCA standard by RICS is a powerful step towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible construction and infrastructure sector. By providing professionals with the tools to make informed design choices that reduce carbon emissions, RICS is contributing to the global mission of combating climate change. The standard not only sets a precedent for the industry but also empowers stakeholders to play an active role in creating a cleaner and more sustainable built environment for generations to come.