ER97 Integrating carbon into Beacon Pathway’s Medium Density Housing Assessment Tool (2024)

This research developed an existing resource, the medium-density housing (MDH) assessment tool, to include assessment components and recommendations to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The aim is to assist developers and property managers to understand the impacts of their buildings’ operations on the climate, environment, local neighbourhood and residents and also inform future design and the potential retrofitting of existing MDH. The research also aims to provide targeted behavioural advice to residents.

The project methodology comprised a literature review to determine current best international and national practice that revised the tool to include GHG emissions components. The tool was tested – including an assessment of energy usage – with end users in three case studies. A summary case study was developed to raise awareness of the benefits of better practice to reduce GHG emissions and promote further use of the tool. A follow-up survey with case study organisations has been done to determine actual changes and reductions in GHG emissions.