Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)

 In recent years, various tools aimed at enhancing the reliability of LCA have emerged. One notable example is the Inventory of Carbon & Energy (ICE) database from the University of Bath, which provides embodied energy and embodied carbon factors for over 200 material types, with a life cycle boundary from cradle to gate. Moreover, energy fuel split data for construction materials not included in the ICE database can be obtained from manufacturers' annual reports, sustainability reports, product catalogs, and Environmental Product Declarations (EPD).

LCA methodologies are crucial for accurately quantifying carbon footprints across various stages, such as production, construction, usage, and disposal. However, when evaluating the carbon footprints of imported products in Hong Kong's construction sector, a significant gap exists in the availability of specialized tools. Despite considerable research and progress in LCA methodologies, calculators are scarce in estimating carbon footprints specifically for the "Cradle-to-Site" stages (A1-A4) within Hong Kong's unique context.

 Developing specialized calculators tailored to the needs of Hong Kong's construction sector is essential. These calculators would address the complexities in assessing imported products' carbon footprints. They would serve as valuable tools for stakeholders, including property developers, architects, engineers, and material suppliers, enabling them to make informed decisions and advance sustainability objectives in construction practices.