Implementation of limit values for carbon dioxide and hybrid frame designs: A possible way forward

To achieve its 2030 climate neutrality goal, Uppsala municipality introduced a climate itinerary in 2021, setting annually decreasing limits (12% reduction per year) on carbon dioxide equivalent emissions for new construction and civil engineering. The purpose was to investigate how two hybrid frames affect a building’s ability to meet these limit values for carbon dioxide emissions. A case study therefore analysed the impact of these limits on a school building’s frame design. Quantitative data for steel-CLT and steel-HDF hybrid options was compared by using life cycle analyses for the product and construction process stage with modules A1-A5. The findings indicated that while both designs currently meet the 2025 emission targets, they will not meet the progressively lower limits in subsequent years.