Quantifying Carbon: The Evolving Role of Quantity Surveyors in Embodied Carbon Management in Construction Projects

Abstract: The construction sector is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions, with embodied carbon comprising a substantial share of a building’s total carbon footprint. This paper review explores the emerging role of Quantity Surveyors (QS) in managing and mitigating embodied carbon in construction projects. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing literature, the review examines the integration of carbon accounting into traditional QS practices, the development of carbon estimation frameworks, and the challenges associated with carbon quantification in cost planning. Key findings reveal that while QS professionals possess the analytical skills necessary for cost estimation, they require additional training to effectively incorporate carbon metrics. Furthermore, the lack of standardized carbon assessment frameworks presents a barrier to consistent application. Several authors emphasized the importance of digital tools that integrate cost and carbon data, positioning QS a pivotal stakeholder in sustainable construction practices. This review underscores the need for further research on standard guidelines, comprehensive training, and digital tools to empower QS in the context of embodied carbon management, advancing the construction industry toward net-zero carbon objectives.