Design for zero

Recent successes in reducing operational carbon emissions of built assets must now be matched by similarly deep reductions in their embodied carbon emissions. 'Business as usual' is incompatible with climate emergency, and deep changes across the design, construction, use, and re-use of buildings and infrastructure are required if we are to have any chance of providing a sustainable environment for the 9.7 billion people who will share our planet in 2050.

This means thinking differently about how we use all materials. Material efficiency is a fertile environment for new and creative designs. Embracing this will allow structural engineering to demonstrate the great value we can bring to clients and society. We must make carbon considerations as important as safety calculations. Every project must change, and this guidance will help engineers make those changes.


Part 1 examines the origins of certain design practices and sources of carbon emissions.

Part 2 presents a vision for the future, supported by case studies of real projects that have successfully reduced carbon. The case studies have been deliberately chosen - highlighting commonly-encountered scenarios, rather than showcasing glamourous extremes.

Part 3 offers advice on how to advocate for improved design, and the ways an individual can contribute.