Integrating Embodied Carbon Accounting into the Role of the Quantity Surveying Profession in the Construction Industry

Abstract

Despite unprecedented attention focusing upon embodied carbon accounting (ECA) and concomitant net-zero emissions in the construction industry, the quantity surveying (QS) profession’s quintessential role in achieving this ambition has hitherto attracted scant academic attention. Thus, this study examines how ECA can become an integral part of the QS profession. An exploratory mixed-method approach is adopted, including descriptive analysis and inferential analysis such as factor analysis, correlation and thematic analysis. Primary quantitative data were gathered from 106 related experts, whilst qualitative data were gathered from twelve related experts. Emergent results show that QS skills in cost planning, procurement and early design involvement are directly relevant to ECA. Key enablers identified are: “industry collaboration and knowledge sharing”, “tools, frameworks, and policy infrastructure” and “data integration and ECA cost planning”. However, for QS to effectively contribute to ECA, a blend of technical expertise, digital proficiency, and communication skills is requisite. Nonetheless, the key strategies to integrate the ECA into the QS profession are: “formalised training and upskilling”, “embedding carbon into existing QS workflows”, “digital tool integration”, “early-stage project involvement” and “policy and client-led requirements.” This study recommends aligning ECA frameworks with established QS cost management systems to create unified cost–carbon standards. This development could encourage academic institutions to incorporate carbon literacy, environmental product declaration (EPD) interpretation and BIM-LCA integration into QS higher education curricula. Furthermore, the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and other bodies must enforce continuing professional development modules on carbon management and include carbon data reporting in standard QS deliverables.