Webinar - Whole Life Carbon Assessment: Smarter, Not Harder
Webinar Overview
What We Covered
- How BIM-based workflows improve the accuracy of whole life carbon assessments by capturing real geometry and material data
- Practical, project-based examples, including concrete quantities, pipework, façade systems, and MEP components
- Why accurate BIM modelling matters, and common pitfalls to avoid
- How integrating WLCA at early stages into design workflows adds value to projects by improving decision-making and reducing rework.
- An overview of our WLCA workflow and how it supports designers, developers, and multidisciplinary teams
- Live Q&A with a whole life carbon specialist
Q&A session
Can you explain a little on how all MEP elements are calculated? A live example
MEP elements would typically be extracted directly from the MEP BIM model in the same way as shown in the video. However, unlike building elements, they are not split into individual materials. Instead, they are assigned using pieces.
This means the model export would include items such as pipes and ducts measured in metres, as well as equipment such as water tanks, heat recovery units, heat pumps, fans and other systems counted as individual pieces.
The list of equipment extracted from the BIM model would then be cross-checked against the MEP equipment schedules to ensure that all systems are included and nothing is missing. Once verified, the quantities are exported into One Click LCA following the same workflow demonstrated in the video.
Within One Click LCA, a relevant EPD is assigned to each item where available. If manufacturer-specific EPDs are not available in the database, we would request them directly from the manufacturer. If manufacturer EPDs are still not available, the most appropriate dataset is selected according to the EPD hierarchy. This approach ensures that the MEP systems are represented as accurately as possible.
How do you define the B6 & B7 which is not included in Onclick LCA
Operational energy (B6) is typically calculated outside One Click LCA. In line with RICS PS, operational energy should be modelled using TM54. Where TM54 modelling is not available (at early stages of design for example), SAP or SBEM results can be used for regulated energy, with unregulated energy estimated using relevant CIBSE guidance.
Operational water use (B7) is also calculated separately in accordance with Building Regulations Part G.
The resulting annual operational energy (B6) and water consumption (B7) values are then entered manually into the corresponding sections in One Click LCA so that they are included in the WLCA results.
What is the best way to start a WLCA using One-click? Would this be via BIM Model, or spreadsheets or the 3d carbon designer for creating first time WLCA for an as-built rather than improving a stage 2 or 4 assessment
It depends on the stage of design and the amount of information available at the time the WLCA is carried out. When only limited information is available, we would typically start with the 3D Carbon Designer. It is good for option testing, early planning WLCA, stages 1–2 feasibility. The model can then be refined as the design develops and more detailed information becomes available.
A full BIM model is usually available from around RIBA Stage 3 onwards. At this stage, quantities can be extracted directly from the model.
For post-construction or as-built assessments, we typically create a new carbon model using the final BIM models rather than continuing to modify the early-stage 3D Carbon Designer model. This ensures the assessment reflects the actual materials and systems installed in the building and provides a more reliable final WLCA.
Which is the most reliable benchmarking source available for WLCA results against different house types?
Benchmarks shouldn’t really be treated as “reliable” or “unreliable” in themselves. Different studies use different system boundaries, assumptions and calculation methods, so the numbers can vary quite a lot. What’s more important is using a consistent methodology so that results are comparable between projects. That’s why it’s best to reference benchmarks that follow the RICS PS approach, but they should be used as a guide for context rather than as a target that projects need to fit within.
Can I produce a Circular Economy Statement without completing the Whole Life Carbon Assessment?
Yes, but it depends on the purpose of the Circular Economy (CE) Statement.
If the CE Statement is being prepared to demonstrate compliance with GLA requirements, it will typically sit alongside a Whole Life Carbon Assessment (WLCA). The two assessments are closely related, as circular economy strategies (e.g. reuse of materials, design for disassembly, and longevity) can significantly influence the whole life carbon performance of a development. Preparing both together is therefore beneficial and often expected as part of a coordinated submission.
However, if the CE Statement is being produced to inform the design process or provide early-stage circular economy recommendations, it can be prepared without completing a WLCA. In this case, the statement would focus on strategies such as material efficiency, reuse, adaptability, and waste reduction, without necessarily quantifying the associated whole life carbon impacts.
I have had issues with the quality of MEP Revit models in the past. How do you overcome this when using them for Whole Life Carbon take-offs?
Quality of MEP Revit models can vary, so we address this through a combination of early review and cross-checking with other design information. To ensure accuracy we always review the MEP model alongside equipment schedules and technical specifications. If something doesn’t align, we flag it early and clarify with the design team.
We often work closely with our parent company, Cooper Homewood, who are MEP consultants and primarily design in Revit. Because we collaborate regularly, the models we receive are generally well structured and suitable for extracting quantities for Whole Life Carbon assessments. When preparing a fee proposal, we also review the expected quality and level of detail of the MEP BIM models. This helps us determine whether they can be used directly for carbon take-offs or whether alternative approaches may be more appropriate.
Do I need to be proficient in Revit to extract the information needed for the assessment?
No, you don’t need to be highly proficient in Revit to extract the information required for a Whole Life Carbon Assessment.
A basic understanding of how to navigate the model and access element data is usually sufficient to review systems and extract the relevant quantities. The process typically involves reviewing object properties, filtering categories and exporting schedules, rather than carrying out detailed modelling work.
If more complex queries arise, our BIM technicians at Cooper Homewood are always available to provide guidance, training, or share tips on how to navigate the model efficiently. This collaborative approach ensures the necessary information can be extracted reliably without requiring advanced Revit expertise.
What is the best way to start a WLCA using One-click? Would this be via BIM Model, or spreadsheets or the 3d carbon designer for creating first time WLCA for an as-built rather than improving a stage 2 or 4 assessment?
It depends on the stage of design and the amount of information available at the time the WLCA is carried out. When only limited information is available, we would typically start with the 3D Carbon Designer. It is good for option testing, early planning WLCA, stages 1–2 feasibility. The model can then be refined as the design develops and more detailed information becomes available.
A full BIM model is usually available from around RIBA Stage 3 onwards. At this stage, quantities can be extracted directly from the model.
For post-construction or as-built assessments, we typically create a new carbon model using the final BIM models rather than continuing to modify the early-stage 3D Carbon Designer model. This ensures the assessment reflects the actual materials and systems installed in the building and provides a more reliable final WLCA.
Watch the video to gain critical insights into Whole Life Carbon Assessments.
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