As the world struggles more and more with climate issues, the carbon footprint of houses remains unnoticed. Japan is usually one of the most energy-efficient economies in the world. But as per a recent study, a wooden house in Japan emits 38 tons of CO2 during construction.
In Fukuoka, Japan, researchers from Kyushu University recently conducted a comprehensive study. The focus was to find out the amount of CO2 emitted by building a house in Japan. The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the total emission from a production point of view.
Carbon footprint assessments for building a single wooden house in Japan are measured in terms of 38 tons equivalent of CO2. It also includes emissions from material bituminization, transportation, building construction and other similar processes.
Highlights
- Constructing a standard wooden house as per Japan’s architectural conditions accounts for around 90% of housing stock.
- The study identified several key emission hotspots within the supply chain.
- The electric power sector was found to be the biggest polluter, claiming 32% of the emissions in total.
- Pig iron production constituted a share of 12%, and cement transport, delivered by road transport, was 7%.
- The total share of the private power generation sector was 7%.
- Production of steel as itemized by the network chart accounted for a 15% carbon footprint.
- Bricks and building materials accounted for a 7.4% carbon footprint.
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Possible Solution
Seiya Imada a doctoral candidate and the study’s lead author said, “If you combine the emissions generated by construction activity and the supply chain manufacturing of its essential products, it can account for approximately 23% of all global emissions.“
“94% of that comes from the supply chain alone. Therefore, emission reduction efforts targeting the supply chain are the best way to mitigate any emissions from the construction sector,” Imada further added.
As researchers conclude that a wooden house in Japan emits 38 tons of CO2, it shows Japan is more focused on reducing the energy expenditure cost of building a house. However, the country lacks the concrete plan to reduce CO2 emissions associated with the construction stage.
According to researchers, it is important to understand and address the complex supply chain emissions associated with the construction industry. By identifying emission hotspots, policymakers and industry professionals can implement targeted strategies. This can reduce the sector’s climate impact and help work towards a more sustainable future for home construction.
