Embodied carbon tracking in the construction supply chain: phenomenological insights into challenges and strategies

Purpose Effective tracking of embodied carbon (EC) across construction supply chains is critical for decarbonisation but remains challenged by fragmented data, regulatory gaps and limited digital integration. This study aims to identify key EC tracking challenges and essential implementation strategies and evaluates the role of digital technologies in facilitating comprehensive EC tracking. Design/methodology/approach A phenomenological research design was used, involving semi-structured interviews with eight UK-based construction professionals experienced in EC management. Findings Findings revealed that barriers like data inconsistency and low awareness can be overcome through strategies such as automation, collaboration and early planning. Digital technologies were revealed to be pivotal enablers, enhancing transparency and real-time monitoring. Originality/value This study advances EC scholarship by providing phenomenological evidence from UK practitioners on supply-chain EC tracking, yielding a consolidated typology of challenges, implementation strategies and adoption levers. It bridges the gap between theoretical frameworks and practical implementation by empirically identifying the specific strategies that practitioners perceive as essential for overcoming EC tracking challenges within the construction supply chain. Furthermore, it provides empirical evidence on the pivotal role of digital technologies in enhancing data transparency and real-time monitoring, thereby contributing actionable insights for industry stakeholders striving for a low-carbon built environment. This study offers an actionable framework for industry practitioners, policymakers and technology developers to advance EC tracking.