The SEAO Sustainable Design Committee will lead a discussion on embodied carbon in structural systems and the structural engineer’s role in minimizing impacts on the built environment. The presentation will explore current research and key findings that highlight the significance of embodied carbon in a building’s total carbon impact, emphasizing the need for engineers to take an active role in reducing carbon in their projects. Various strategies for reducing embodied carbon will be explored at both the material level and whole-building levels, with an emphasis on the critical impact of early design decisions. A case study comparing mass timber construction to functionally equivalent steel and concrete buildings is used to demonstrate the impact of various structural systems on carbon emissions.
About Jo Ann Offill
Jo Ann Offill, Structural Designer at Mackenzie - Jo Ann has over 9 years of experience in the industry. She currently works as a structural designer at Mackenzie where she leads the department’s sustainability efforts, including its commitment to the SE 2050 Program. She serves as chair of the SEAO Sustainable Design Committee and is an active member of the Sustainable Design Committee for the NCSEA.
About Matthew Pearson
Matthew Pearson has worked with KPFF since 2021 as a structural designer and actively contributes to the company's mission to fulfill the SE 2050 commitment. He also currently serves on the SEAO Sustainable Design Committee. Above all, Matthew values accountability and empathy, and recognizes how both are integral in pushing our industry forward to be more carbon conscious.