EFFC/DFI Carbon Reduction Guide-PDF

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The EFFC/DFI Carbon Reduction Guide (2024) offers practical advice to geotechnical companies—designers, consultants, contractors and suppliers—on reducing emissions in support of UN Sustainable Development Goals 7 and 13. It is guidance, not a mandatory standard.<br /><br />Geotechnical projects contribute to construction-related greenhouse gas emissions. Contractors’ Scope 3 emissions can account for about 80% of emissions on heavy foundation projects, largely due to materials such as cement, concrete and steel. Climate change also creates physical risks, including extreme weather, and transition risks as regulations, clients and investors increasingly favour lower-carbon solutions.<br /><br />The guide recommends following a reduction hierarchy: eliminate emissions where possible, reduce them, substitute lower-carbon options, and use offsets only for residual emissions. Key actions include reusing existing foundations and materials; optimizing designs and material quantities; considering ground improvement and lower-carbon cement; working with suppliers on product emissions and Environmental Product Declarations; reducing transport and waste; using efficient or electric equipment; connecting sites to grid electricity; and improving workforce awareness. Decisions should consider whole-life carbon, since a solution with higher construction emissions may reduce operational or user emissions over an asset’s lifetime.<br /><br />Companies are encouraged to measure emissions across Scopes 1, 2 and, where feasible, 3; establish a baseline; set measurable interim and long-term targets; and regularly report and review progress. At project level, the EFFC/DFI carbon calculator helps compare foundation options and track estimated versus actual emissions. The guide also outlines relevant reporting rules, procurement initiatives and environmental accreditations, noting that requirements vary and continue to evolve.

Keywords

carbon reduction

geotechnical projects

greenhouse gas emissions

Scope 3 emissions

whole-life carbon

lower-carbon materials

foundation design

environmental product declarations

emissions reporting

sustainable development goals