Carbon-Neutral Commercial Building Development

It is well recognized that the construction industry is one of the largest contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions. This research investigates achieving carbon neutrality in commercial developments. A case study approach was adopted to gain an in-depth analysis of the first commercial building claimed to be carbon neutral in Australia. Key participants were interviewed, and this was followed by a review of the project specification. The analysis focuses on practices to achieve carbon neutrality in commercial developments, such as standard setting, measurement, materials selection, construction techniques, and knowledge. Results showed that a carbon-neutral commercial building can be achieved even though there are a number of challenges, such as lack of maturity in working definitions and subsequent standards to measure carbon neutrality. The selection of appropriate materials and relevant knowledge are critical in achieving carbon neutrality in commercial building developments. This study provides a useful reference for future carbon-neutral commercial developments. DOI: 10.1061/(ASCE)ME.1943-5479.0000127. (C) 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.