Benchmarks

Currently, there is no comprehensive source of whole-life carbon benchmarking data, as embodied and operational emissions are often tracked and reported separately. Still, sources exist for understanding typical performance for both operational and embodied emissions. C.Scale’s data model makes use of benchmarking data as described below.

Embodied Carbon Benchmarks

C.Scale benchmarks the embodied emissions of a building against the Carbon Leadership Forum’s WBLCA Benchmark Study (2025), providing users with an easy-to-understand reference for whether their building is low-, average-, or high-carbon compared to other buildings.

The CLF WBLCA Benchmark Dataset includes cradle-to-grave WBLCA results for 239 “new construction” projects across North America. Renovation or tenant improvement (TI) projects and parking garages in the full dataset have not been used for Benchmarking purposes. The CLF Embodied Carbon Benchmark Report establishes Embodied Carbon Intensities (ECI) in kgCO2e/m2 normalized by a project’s gross floor area (GFA) for six general use types: multifamily residential, education, office, public assembly, warehouse and storage, and other. CLF Benchmark models include structure, envelope, interiors, and construction activities, but exclude services (MEP), landscape/site, and operational emissions (including energy use and refrigerants). All WBLCA models in the dataset have been aligned to a reference study period (RSP) of 60 years.

When calculating embodied carbon benchmark values, C.Scale aligns background data with the scope selected by the user and compares it to the relevant data in the CLF WBLCA Benchmark Study dataset. Benchmarks can be generated for A1-3, A1-A5, or A-C assessments. Percentile results displayed in the tool include building materials and construction activities (SE or SEI), but always exclude services/MEP, landscape, demolition, and operational emissions (such as energy use and refrigerants).

To improve compatibility with published benchmark figures, we suggest users view the model over a 60-year assessment period and adjust the model's scope using the life cycle stage or building element categories available in the project settings panel.

API Reference