Increasingly, yes. Many UK local authorities require embodied carbon statements or whole life carbon reporting for major developments. Requirements vary by region.

Many local planning authorities, including requirements under the London Plan, now expect WLCA reporting for planning approval, particularly for major developments. Guidance such as the Whole Life-Cycle Carbon Assessment template supports both pre-application and post-construction reporting.

Ideally at early design stage. Early assessment allows meaningful carbon reduction through material and system choices.

Timeframes depend on project size and available data. Early engagement improves efficiency. Average turnarounds are from a few working days to 2 weeks.

Our Whole Life Carbon Assessments are undertaken in accordance with recognised UK and international standards, including:

• RICS Whole Life Carbon Assessment (2nd Edition)

• BS EN 15978 lifecycle assessment framework

• UK Net Zero Carbon Building Framework guidance

• Relevant planning authority carbon reporting templates

This ensures assessments are technically robust, transparent and suitable for planning submission or investor reporting.

To undertake a Whole Life Carbon Assessment, we typically require:

• Architectural drawings and schedules

• Structural information and material specifications

• MEP system details

• Floor areas and building use classification

• Energy modelling outputs (SAP or SBEM where applicable)

Where information is incomplete, we apply recognised benchmarks and clearly document assumptions.

Whole life carbon is measured in kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent per square metre (kgCO₂e/m²).

The assessment considers lifecycle modules:

• A1–A3: Product stage

• A4–A5: Construction stage

• B1–B7: Use stage

• C1–C4: End-of-life stage

• D: Benefits beyond system boundary

Results are presented transparently to allow comparison against benchmarks and carbon targets.

Yes. WLCA is a critical component of net zero carbon strategy.

By identifying embodied and operational carbon hotspots, developers can:

• Reduce upfront carbon

• Improve operational performance

• Align with net zero carbon pathways

• Support ESG and sustainability reporting

WLCA provides measurable evidence of carbon reduction commitments.

No. While major commercial developments are more likely to require WLCA for planning, residential and mixed-use projects are increasingly subject to embodied carbon scrutiny.

Housing schemes, retrofit projects and public sector developments may also benefit from lifecycle carbon analysis.