Building decarbonization is a process that aims to reduce human-made greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from buildings throughout their life cycle, including design, construction, operation, occupancy, and end of life. Primary sources of GHG emissions include construction, energy use, methane, and refrigerants.

Climate change is primarily caused by the rise in greenhouse gas emissions, which have been increasing since 2012. Countries with high GHG emissions are implementing measures to enhance energy efficiency to combat this global issue.

 A building life-cycle assessment considers operational and embodied emissions, with carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) as the standard metric for quantifying GHGs.

However, to combat the effects of climate change and austerity, continuous efforts to reduce GHG emissions through legal and technical methods are required. Governments should also synchronise laws, standards, and tools to protect the environment against public nuisances and private interference. The construction industry has played a significant role in the rise of GHG emissions.

The ASHRAE Certified Decarbonisation Professional (CDP) certification aims to equip professionals with knowledge and skills to contribute to building decarbonisation goals, focusing on principles and techniques for reducing greenhouse gas emissions throughout buildings.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases are released as a result of power generation, transportation, and other industrial and commercial activities, which worsen global environmental impacts.

ASHRAE is an international organisation dedicated to advancing the arts and sciences of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration for a sustainable world. The Certified Decarbonisation Professional (CDP) certification programme validates job competency in internationally recognised technical information.

Corporates should adopt carbon-reducing measures immediately to address environmental issues. Conducting a carbon audit is crucial for identifying carbon emissions sources and quantifying environmental impact. Energy consumption is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, making it beneficial to minimise carbon footprints by incorporating energy-conservation practices.

Krishnaji Pawar, an accomplished sustainability specialist with expertise in smart city development, sustainable design strategy development, environmental impact assessment, green building certification (LEED, GSAS, etc.), energy usage modelling, greenhouse gas accounting, and emissions management, developed the Certified Decarbonization Professional – CDP Overview Course.