The embodied energy and emissions of a high-rise education building: A quantification using process-based hybrid life cycle inventory model

Abstract

Due to the lack of energy intensity data for building materials and the high integration of the construction sector in national input–output tables, applications of conventional process-based life cycle inventory (LCI) and input–output (I–O) LCI models are hindered in China. This study developed a process-based hybrid LCI model to calculate the embodied energy and emissions of a typical high-rise building in China, which has a frame-shear wall and reinforced concrete frame structure. The I–O model used for building materials manufacturing is based on the 2007 Chinese economic benchmark statistics. The process-based model uses the specific data of transportation and construction activities. Results show that the embodied energy of the case building was 309,965GJ and, the energy intensity is 6.3GJm−2. The embodied energy is dominated by coal and the shares of diesel fuel and electricity in total energy were significant. The embodied emissions mainly derive from the electricity sector and gas and water production due to its intensive coal consumption. Results of the process-based hybrid model were moderately higher (5–13%) than the I–O model values.