The City Handbook for Carbon Neutral Buildings is a comprehensive guide developed by the Carbon Neutral Cities Alliance(CNCA) in collaboration with Arup.
Published in 2024, the handbook supports urban policymakers and planners in evaluating and reducing whole-life carbon emissions in construction projects. It provides actionable insights on the adoption of bio-based building materials, alongside detailed technical information on their benefits and challenges.
With its material catalogue, the handbook serves as apractical resource for both public and private procurement teams, aiming to influence sustainable material choices and foster carbon-neutral construction practices.
In alignment with the principles outlined in the City Handbook, the following collection highlights innovative materials frommanufacturers committed to reducing carbon footprints in the built environment. These materials focus on low Global Warming Potential(GWP) and the utilisation of bio-based resources.
Explore the full collection on revalu here.
Amorim Cork Insulation offers the Expanded InsulationCorkboard (ICB), a natural and renewable insulation material. This product achieves an exceptional GWP of -2037.942,reflecting its significant carbon-negative impact. The sustainably harvested cork provides excellent thermal and acoustic insulation while actively contributing to carbon sequestration, making it an ideal choice for environmentally conscious projects.
EcoCocon s.r.o. produces Standard and Braced Straw Panels,designed for energy-efficient building envelopes. With a GWP of-109.000, these panels deliver a carbon-negative solution for construction. Made from straw, a rapidly renewable resource, these panels offer excellent insulation properties while promoting healthy indoor air quality.
Ekolution AB’s EKOLUTION® Hemp Fibre Insulationis a bio-based material with a GWP of -6.810. Hemp fibres provide natural thermal and acoustic insulation, and their cultivation supports soil health and carbon sequestration. This versatile insulation material enhances indoor environments while reducing environmental impact.
Ekopanely produces straw construction boards, including the EKOPANELY BOARD E40 and EKOPANELY straw construction boards E60/1200, with GWP values ranging from-33.900 to -47.600. These boards are used as structural and insulating elements, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional materials. Their energy efficiency and low carbon footprint make them a valuable component in carbon-neutral construction.
Schonthaler introduces the Hemp Brick, a bio-composite material combining hemp fibres with a mineral binder. Although specific GWP data is unavailable, hemp bricks are recognised for their carbon sequestration capabilities and superior thermal performance. These bricks offer a sustainable masonry solution that supports healthier indoor climates.
The "City Handbook: Carbon Neutral Building Collection" exemplifies how bio-based and low-carbon materials can transform the construction industry. From carbon-negative corkboards and strawpanels to hemp-based insulation and bricks, these materials showcase innovative approaches to reducing whole-life carbon emissions in buildings. By prioritising these materials, the built environment can align more closely with the goals of carbon neutrality, promoting sustainable construction practices and healthier living spaces.
Explore the full collection on revalu here.
Find the pdf file here.