Articles tagged with "sustainable-design"
Embodied carbon is the next big challenge for structural engineers
The article highlights the growing importance of addressing embodied carbon in structural engineering as operational emissions decline. Embodied carbon refers to the total greenhouse gas emissions associated with a building’s materials throughout their lifecycle—from extraction and manufacturing to installation and eventual demolition. It often accounts for over half of a building’s total lifecycle emissions in the first few decades, making it a critical focus area since these emissions are largely fixed once construction materials are in place. Given that the construction industry contributes around 40% of global emissions, reducing embodied carbon early in the design process has become a priority for engineers, regulators, and clients alike. Measuring embodied carbon is complex due to inconsistent data sources and project variability, requiring lifecycle assessments (LCA) and tools such as Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment (WBLCA) software, and carbon factor databases. However, quantification challenges remain, especially for materials like engineered wood or recycled content, forcing engineers to rely on proxies and assumptions. To effectively reduce
energyembodied-carbonstructural-engineeringsustainable-designlifecycle-assessmentconstruction-materialscarbon-emissionsFuel-cell powered BMW Ethos could be brand’s next exclusive halo car
The BMW Ethos is a newly unveiled concept car that reimagines the iconic 1990s Nazca C2 supercar with modern design and hydrogen fuel-cell technology. Designed by Sebastiano Ciarcia, the Ethos retains the Nazca’s aggressive low stance but replaces its sharp edges with smooth, aerodynamic curves and a futuristic full-width LED light bar. The concept features a glass roof that pays homage to the original’s transparent top while enhancing cabin openness and luxury. Under the hood, the Ethos swaps the original’s 5.0-liter V12 engine for a zero-emission hydrogen-electric powertrain, reflecting BMW’s commitment to sustainable performance that could rival current hypercars. The Ethos also incorporates advanced aerodynamic elements such as an active rear wing, blending race-inspired functionality with modern efficiency. Its interior is minimalist and tech-forward, featuring a fully digital dashboard with BMW’s latest iDrive system and sustainable materials like carbon fiber and recycled composites. Drawing design cues from BMW’s i8
energyhydrogen-fuel-cellelectric-vehicleBMW-Ethosautomotive-materialssustainable-designcarbon-fiberFuturistic jet flies 3,600 miles with no windows and 50% less fuel
energyefficiencyaviationfuel-consumptionsustainable-designtechnologyinnovation