*This project is part of [The Carbon Almanac](https://thecarbonalmanac.org/)* related to: #Buildings #Buildingmaterial #Carbonsequestering #Concrete #GreenEconomy #SustainableInvesting #SustainableMaterials #Coal #Combustion #CarbonFootprint #Reuse #Recycle #EcoDesign #Biomimicry The Carbon Almanac Reference: TCA 265 [https://thecarbonalmanac.org/265/](https://thecarbonalmanac.org/265/) ##### Issue: Biogenic materials, which store carbon and reduce emissions in the manufacturing process, can transform buildings into emission sinks. Buildings are responsible for nearly 40% of the world's CO2 emissions each year. Only three materials are responsible for 23% of global CO2 emissions: concrete, steel, and aluminiu. Most of that is due to the built environment. ##### Action - Collective Impact ●●● "Don't build" is the first and the best way to reduce  emissions. You can start by gathering a group of people, making banners and notifying the media and local council. This can be used to start conversations with the government and building regulators regarding the materials used in the building. ●●● Regulations about government buildings footprint is an important fight (against demolishing, instead re-furbishing and re-using): start a petition for every new building government project (via https://www.change.org/start-a-petition). ●●● If your business is an entrepreneur (architect or biobuilder), you can start a lobby organization to represent your views. ●●● Invest in research and innovation about carbon sequestering, low-carbon materials and carbon sequestration. ##### Action: Medium Impact ●● You and your fellow members of your commity should be seen as the stakeholder. Get a small group (10 people) together and discuss with your local council/community leaders (in your area) how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. How to encourage re-use of building companies, developers, etc. ? ##### Individual Impact ● Do not use concrete to build or renovate your home. Other materials that have a low, zero, or even negative carbon footprint are better. See pages 219-220 of The Carbon Almanac, 223, 223 and 224. ![[breakline-mediumTCA.png]] See also: [[--Reducing Embodied Carbon in Building Materials]] [[Low-Carbon Concrete]] [[Green Steel]] [[Cross-Laminated Timber]] [[Wool & Hemp - Allies in Construction]]