WLCA standard 2nd edition now in full effect

Unlocking the value added when using the WLCA standard

The second edition of the whole life carbon assessment (WLCA) standard, which officially replaces the first edition, came into full effect on July 1, 2024.

From this date, RICS members globally need to follow the updated WLCA standard for all relevant project phases and types. This includes recording any deviations from the standard, as part of the assessment process.

This milestone arrives as the perfect opportunity to learn more about the standard and the value it unlocks for RICS members.

Why should you use the standard?

There is much that can be gained by using the standard and taking action in delivering a net-zero future. According to the latest global status report released by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), emissions from the construction sector remain at an all-time high. The industry needs to do more to achieve the critical decarbonisation targets by 2050.

The 2023 RICS Sustainability report provides valuable insights into the current state and what needs to change. According to RICS research, only 15% of global respondents measure embodied carbon and use it to select materials, systems, and components. The respondents see the lack of established standards, tools, databases, benchmarks and guidance as the principal barrier to reducing carbon emissions.

A similar finding can be seen in the RICS Digitalisation in Construction report. Almost half of the respondents reported not using digital tools at all for carbon footprint calculation, benchmarking and reporting.

Our WLCA standard is designed to address these issues. It allows professionals to measure carbon emissions across the whole lifecycle of projects, programmes and portfolios of assets. Members can also use it alongside the Built Environment Carbon Database (BECD), created by RICS in coalition with fellow built environmental bodies, which enhances availability of data. Reporting is also streamlined by aligning with the International Cost Management Standard (ICMS) 3^rd edition.

Our members are already embracing the WLCA standard and ready to unlock the value it can add to services they provide for clients and stakeholders. It allows them to develop decarbonisation pathways, supported with consistent assessments, and combine carbon reduction advice with cost planning and management services. By using the standards, members are able to help clients, occupiers, and other value chain members make more informed decisions.

This also creates greater competitive advantage to their services, attracting new clients and generate additional revenue streams, ensuring return on investment (ROI). These services are only bound to grow as the demand for a low-carbon built environment that supports economic and social sustainability increases. This in turn helps to ensure we meet net-zero targets, creating sustainable, healthier buildings.

The standard also opens opportunities for members to equip themselves with the right skills and knowledge to deliver WLCAs. Usually, a sustainability consultant may be asked to conduct a WLCA instead of a quantity surveyor. This highlights the importance of our members using the standard – delivering a new service in their work and tapping into new skills. Our WLCA standard, guides and training gives members the tools to equip themselves with this knowledge and apply it to conduct accurate and consistent WLCAs.

As demand for sustainability expertise continues to grow, professionals well-versed in WLCA are positioned to capitalise on these emerging opportunities.

Access our WLCA standard resources

Endorsed by both governmental and professional bodies, including Carbon Risk Real Estate Monitor (CRREM) and International Cost Management Standards (ICMS), the WLCA standard is recognized globally for its leading methodology in decarbonisation within the built environment.

To support members with using the new standard, we have developed a dedicated WLCA Hub on our website, offering a variety of templates and resources, including:

• Global harmonisation framework for WLCA for the built environment
• WLCA – A guide for clients
• Capacity building playbook for a sustainable built and natural environment
• National playbook for implementing WLCA

We also provide training courses, including a dedicated certification in WLCA. This training is designed to ensure professionals can conduct carbon assessments in compliance with the WLCA standard.

RICS encourages all members to integrate the WLCA standard into their work as soon as possible. For further information and resources, visit the WLCA Hub on our website.