Carbon Analysis of a Multistory Commercial Building in Rajasthan

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Chinese explanation / 中文解读

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Original abstract

Carbon footprint assessment is an effective tool for quantifying greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions generated directly and indirectly by an organization in terms of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂). Measuring these emissions helps identify major emission sources, evaluate carbon reduction opportunities, and support sustainable development through effective mitigation strategies. Educational institutions, owing to their energy consumption, transportation activities, and resource utilization, have significant potential for reducing their carbon footprint and promoting low-carbon campus operations. This study evaluates the carbon footprint of a hostel building using the principles of ISO 14064-1:2018 and the GHG Protocol Corporate Standard. A bottom-up life cycle assessment (LCA) approach was adopted to quantify Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 emissions based on activity data and appropriate emission factors. Carbon sequestration potential of the existing tree cover was estimated using allometric equations, and suitable carbon reduction and offset measures were proposed. The total organizational carbon footprint was estimated at 51.55 tCO₂e, while inclusion of human respiration for comparative analysis increased the total to 88.99 tCO₂e. Scope 3 emissions contributed the largest share (47%), followed by Scope 1 (27%) and Scope 2 (26%). The existing tree cover provided a carbon sequestration potential of approximately 0.60 tCO₂e per year, indicating the need for additional carbon sinks. The study further evaluated mitigation strategies including a 5kW rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system, biogas generation from organic waste, rainwater harvesting, rooftop vegetation, composting, energy-efficient appliances, and sustainable transportation practices. Among these, the rooftop solar PV system exhibited the highest emission reduction potential of approximately 10.9 tCO₂e per year, while the combined implementation of all proposed measures can substantially reduce the hostel's carbon footprint. The findings demonstrate that integrating renewable energy, efficient resource utilization, sustainable waste and water management, and enhanced green infrastructure can support the transition of institutional buildings toward carbon neutrality and contribute to achieving national and global sustainability goals.

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