Track, Assess, Evaluate, and Document
Find ways to track the impact of project decisions on the carbon footprint through regular assessment, then evaluate projects at the end or after occupancy:
Include Interiors
If the architects, engineers, or contractors are conducting a whole building Life Cycle Assessment, ask for interiors to be included. Ensure that the frequency of renovations or tenant improvements is accounted for in the assessment.
Conduct Weekly Assessments
Carve out time every week for carbon assessments. Use LCA calculators (like Tally or CLF’s TI LCA calculator) to assess past projects and hone your methodology, then start to assess ongoing projects.
Find a Carbon Champion
Designate a team member to remind everyone to assess at every stage—SD, DD, CA—and to include collaborators like GCs or consultants in those assessments. Integrate these checkpoints into the agenda for design meetings. It’s critical for the CM and/or GC to regularly assess these goals (with the design team) during construction.
Follow Up
Return to projects during CA or conduct post-occupancy to check if low-carbon products and pieces designed for disassembly are performing as intended, if strategies for flexibility are still being leveraged. Create internal incentives for revisiting projects. (Don’t let the memory of the project fade before the products go to the landfill.)
If you have feedback on the Climate Toolkit for Interior Design, write to: [email protected]
