The TG, chaired by Namat Elkouche, met to review the draft embodied carbon policy and begin addressing implementation details for its inclusion in the code. Key discussion points included the challenge of establishing prescriptive requirements, given the variation in material needs (e.g., for fire resistance) and regional construction practices. Participants highlighted the need for a flexible approach that accounts for local materials and structural systems when defining a baseline or reference building. The NRC’s National Guidelines for Whole-Building Life Cycle Assessment was proposed as a primary reference, with adjustments as needed.

Some participants also noted that many projects currently accounting for embodied carbon prefer the intensity-based approach due to its simplicity and lower cost. However, if this approach is adopted, it was suggested that any intensity thresholds should be region-specific or offer enough flexibility to reflect the diversity of building practices across Canada.

There was also discussion on which life cycle stages should be covered by the requirements, with suggestions ranging from stages A1–A3 to full life cycle coverage through to C4. 

Members considered whether embodied carbon requirements, prescriptive or performance-based, should be in the NBC or NECB. 

The next meeting will take place in September.