Enhancing sustainable construction in the building sector of Uganda using embodied carbon accounting

There is an inextricable linkage between sustainable construction (SC) and carbon emissions -- the former cannot be effectively attained if the latter is ignored. Since the building sector accounts for one-third of annual global carbon emissions, taking action to reduce buildings’ emissions is necessary so as not to undermine SC. However, the predominant focus on the operation phase of buildings has increased the relative importance and magnitude of embodied carbon (EC), which are emissions associated with constructing buildings. Accounting for EC is necessary, since it presents a plethora of opportunities to enhance SC. This initiative should be extended to developing countries in which, although EC assumes significant importance, it is hardly researched about.
This work contributes to understanding and possible enhancement of SC in the building sector in Uganda by investigating the integration of EC accounting in construction practices. Process modelling was used to describe the existing practice (as-is system) so as to identify potential areas for improvement. Mathematical modelling was used to develop a model that was implemented as a software tool, using rapid application development. Using process modelling, the model was integrated into the as-is system to create a new (to-be) system. This system was empirically evaluated using structured interviews with built environment professionals.
Findings show that the to-be system can facilitate SC. It was also found to be institutionally feasible, although high implementation costs were envisaged. The to-be system addresses distributional considerations, such as legitimacy, transparency, and fairness. The challenges and recommendations for implementation were identified. This research provides a tangible option for Uganda’s building sector, and developing countries alike, to explore alternatives of promoting SC through EC accounting. Although the to-be system is unique to Uganda, its components, such as the mathematical model, provide new insights into improving quantification and accounting for EC worldwide.