Carbon dioxide equivalent
Emissions Gap Report 2019 published by the UN Environment Programme defines the carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) as: ‘A way to place emissions of various radiative forcing agents on a common footing by accounting for their effect on climate. It describes, for a given mixture and amount of greenhouse gases, the amount of CO2 that would have the same global warming ability, when measured over a specified time period. For the purpose of this report, greenhouse gas emissions (unless otherwise specified) are the sum of the basket of greenhouse gases listed in Annex A to the Kyoto Protocol, expressed as CO2e assuming a 100-year global warming potential.’
The HS2 London-West Midlands Environmental Statement, published by the Department for Transport in November 2013 suggests the term 'carbon dioxide equivalent' refers to a metric measure used to compare the emissions from various greenhouse gases based on their global warming potential.
BG 87/2024, Useful Information Guide, written by Chin Hang “Kay” Lam and published by BSRIA in 2024, defines carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2-eq or CO2e) as: ‘A measure of greenhouse gas emissions which enables the effects of different gases to be compared. It expresses the warming effect over a set period (usually 100 years) to that of carbon dioxide (CO2).’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Carbon.
- Carbon capture and storage.
- Carbon dioxide.
- Carbon emissions reduction target CERT.
- Carbon footprint.
- Embodied energy.
- Energy consumption.
- Energy Performance of Buildings Directive.
- Energy targets.
- Greenhouse gases
- Reducing UK emissions: 2018 Progress Report to Parliament.
- Target emission rate.
- Carbon Plan.
Featured articles and news
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.