PNNL’s researchers have long been pushing the envelope on energy efficiency in the built environment –now they’re leading the way to achieve true decarbonization through data-driven sustainability that starts from the very beginning of a product’s life cycle.

Sustainability Programs at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Life cycle assessment for mechanical and electrical components in buildings

PNNL’s research into data driven sustainability approaches for Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) building components directly addresses the lack of high-quality data and accounting methods in the industry. PNNL is using existing and enhanced Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approaches for both products and buildings, and reducing barriers for stakeholders to participate in collecting, assessing, and sharing high-quality, transparent, sustainability data. Learn More.

Whole building life cycle assessment research

Although whole-building life cycle assessment (WBLCA) tools and other life cycle impact resources have advanced significantly in the last decade, PNNL has been working to address a lack of consensus on the ideal technological pathway for WBLCA. The team is also focused on bridging the information gap in mechanical and electrical systems within WBLCA tools and resources, exploring best practices and potential pathways forward. For more information email Kathryn Hickcox.