The microchip is the bit that does the hard work.

On the other hand, a reduced scope of refurbishment, which does not include a façade and HVAC systems upgrade, can mean that operational carbon emissions are high due to the inefficient performance of the building..Analysis of different refurbishment options: from retrofit to new construction.

The question is: which is the correct level of refurbishment to ensure that the embodied carbon benefit outweighs the reduced operational carbon performance?Light refurbishment, retaining as much of the building as possible?Or a deeper retrofit, which retains only certain structural elements?.

Bryden Wood has carried out an operational and embodied carbon analysis on three different levels of intervention on an existing commercial building:.Light-touch refurbishment, which includes only an upgrade of MEP equipment, windows and ceilings.. A full refurbishment, retaining only structural elements and including MEP upgrade, new façade, finishes and internal partitions.. Full demolition, and construction of a new building..

The calculation consists of a whole life cycle carbon analysis (WLCA) of the three options, including operational and embodied carbon (A-C).

The embodied carbon figures used are estimations based on LETI 2020 benchmarks for office buildings, excluding sequestration.RIBA 1-5 CSA Building design, optimisation and integration.

Reference design and kit of part design.Procurement and DfMA strategy.

Structural and civil engineering.Cloud-based Advanced BIM modelling.