Global design firm HOK has released research providing lab owners and developers guidance for reducing operational and embodied carbon to meet net zero goals.
HOK’s initial analysis indicates that it is possible to build and operate labs in accordance with the sustainable design goals of the RIBA and AIA 2030 challenges, according to the report’s executive summary. “The approaches studied in this analysis can significantly reduce the whole-life carbon (operational carbon + embodied carbon × building lifespan) of a lab building,” the document says.
Modelling revealed little difference between vertical and linear lab building forms in achieving net zero. But linear labs’ expansive roofs provide an advantage by allowing for more solar panel arrays.
The analysis examined new lab buildings, but the most sustainable option is to reuse and adapt existing buildings, HOK says. Lab buildings are significantly more energy intensive to operate than commercial office buildings and their embodied carbon also is much higher than typical commercial space. Labs demand far greater ventilation than most building types and are home to highly energy-intensive equipment that is often in operation 24 hours a day. Labs also require robust structural systems to limit building vibration and support heavy building loads.
HOK’s analysis looked at numerous strategies to reduce carbon footprint in lab structures. The report provides technical details on these approaches.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2017
Heated debate over whether Calif.’s prevailing wage requirement stymies affordable housing
There’s disagreement around how much pay regulations add to cost of projects.
Codes and Standards | May 25, 2017
Technology is influencing parking requirement codes in new developments
Uber and Lyft make it easier for urban dwellers to live without owning cars.
Codes and Standards | May 25, 2017
Better Buildings Challenge Partners on track to reduce energy usage by 20% in 10 years
More than 1,000 proven solutions are now available on DOE web site.
Codes and Standards | May 22, 2017
Affordable housing initiative drives surge in residential unit permits in New York City
New permits tripled from year-ago period.
Codes and Standards | May 22, 2017
Amid labor shortage, industry groups urge government action to boost trades
AGC says a shortage of qualified workers is limiting the economy from adding more jobs.
Codes and Standards | May 19, 2017
Spate of sinkhole incidents points to neglected infrastructure investment
Suddenly appearing caverns cause deaths, evacuations, interruption of utility services.
Codes and Standards | May 18, 2017
AIA releases updated edition of its A201 flagship documents
These core documents are updated once a decade.
Codes and Standards | May 16, 2017
Trump’s proposed corporate tax rate changes said to stifle funding for affordable housing
Banks reluctant to commit to specific deals with tax credit status uncertain.
Codes and Standards | May 15, 2017
New IoT-Ready Alliance to establish standard for IoT sensors in LED light fixtures
It aims to make installation of technology easier.
Codes and Standards | May 10, 2017
OSHA increases penalties on South Dakota contractor after fatal building collapse
Agency issues over $300,000 in fines for ‘willful’ safety violations.