Retrofit First
A key area which generates greenhouse gas emissions in the built environment is the demolition of existing buildings, both the physical demolition itself and the associated waste processes. These emissions are captured in embodied carbon emissions.
Embodied carbon emissions are those associated with raw material extraction, manufacture and transport of building materials, construction, maintenance, repair replacements, dismantling, demolition and eventual material disposal.
Unlike the carbon emissions associated with the operation of a building, embodied carbon emissions cannot be addressed by grid-decarbonisation. Therefore, it is considered that a policy to reduce the embodied carbon emissions associated with demolition is required.
The retrofit first policy approach seeks to prioritise the retention of existing buildings over demolition. It recognises the benefits of re-using existing buildings to avoid wastage of materials and embodied carbon in existing buildings. This avoids the creation of new embodied carbon in replacement buildings and supports the circular economy.
XXX: Retrofit First – Proposed Options
| No | Options | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| 1 | Development should adopt a retrofit first approach, where options for retrofitting and retention of existing buildings are considered before demolition. Where development proposals include substantial or total demolition of existing building(s), applicants must provide evidence to justify the demolition. Applicants must also demonstrate how they will reuse and recycle the materials created through demolition. |
Buildings will only be demolished and materials disposed of as a last resort and embodied carbon emissions associated with demolition will be reduced. | Viability considerations (to be tested). |