Embodied and Operating Carbon of Fenestration

Research on the Impacts of Innovative Fenestration Materials on the Embodied and Operating Carbon of Buildings

Publication Type: UBC Sustainability Scholars Report

Author:

• Shiva Zargar, Ph.D. Candidate at the Sustainable Bioeconomy Research Group, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada

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Buildings are estimated to account for approximately 40% of global CO2 emissions, with windows being significant contributors to the embodied carbon emissions of buildings. Innovative high-performance fenestration products, such as fibreglass windows, have been shown to reduce these carbon impacts. However, there is a lack of research comparing the embodied carbon emissions of traditional windows (such as aluminum and PVC) to those of innovative materials like fibreglass.

Research Objectives:

1. Evaluate Global Warming Potential (GWP):

   • Assessed the GWP of fibreglass windows manufactured at British Columbia, Canada.

2. Review Traditional Window Production:

   • Compiled the GWP data of traditional window production from publicly available Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).

3. Compare and Contrast Results:

   • Compared the GWP of traditional windows versus innovative materials.

4. Architects’ Use of EPDs:

   • Conducted a survey to understand how architects utilize EPDs in their material selection process.

Key Findings:

• Fiberglass Window Production:

  • Fiberglass windows have the potential to significantly reduce the embodied carbon emissions of buildings compared to aluminum and PVC framed windows.

• Architects’ Use of EPDs:

  • Architects use EPDs to assess and minimize the carbon impact of their material selections.

  • EPDs help architects prioritize manufacturers committed to reducing environmental impacts and maintaining high levels of transparency.

Conclusion:

This research highlights the significant environmental benefits of using fibreglass windows over traditional materials like aluminum and PVC. The findings underscore the importance of EPDs in the decision-making process of architects, promoting the selection of materials with lower carbon footprints. By adopting innovative fenestration materials, we can make substantial progress in reducing the embodied carbon emissions of buildings.

For more details, you can access the full report here.

Contact Information:

For further inquiries or advising services related to the life cycle assessment of construction materials and procuring construction materials, please contact hello@buildneutral.ca

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