Who We Are

The Carbon Leadership Forum accelerates the transformation of the building sector to radically reduce the greenhouse gas emissions attributed to materials (also known as embodied carbon) used in buildings and infrastructure.

We research, educate, and foster cross-collaboration to bring embodied carbon of buildings and infrastructure down to zero.

Our Vision

We envision a transformed, decarbonized building industry – better buildings for a better planet.

Our Mission

Our mission is to eliminate embodied carbon of buildings, materials, and infrastructure to create a just and thriving future.

How We Do it

Recognizing that buildings account for nearly half of global CO2 emissions, the Carbon Leadership Forum, an organization at the University of Washington, is dedicated to accelerating the transformation of the building sector to radically reduce the embodied carbon in building materials and construction through collective action.

The Carbon Leadership Forum propels knowledge through its embodied carbon research and resources, collaboration through its robust network of architects, engineers, contractors, material suppliers, building owners, policymakers, and associations, and action by supporting and empowering its members to advance new ideas and approaches through impactful initiatives.

Research

We investigate the pathways for maximizing carbon reductions and lead collaborative research with material experts, NGOs, industry partners and policymakers.

Resources

We accelerate learning by crowdsourcing and disseminating knowledge that empowers our members.

Network

We bring together architects, engineers, contractors, material suppliers, building owners, policymakers, and associations through environments designed to connect inspired advocates and spark unprecedented collaboration.

Initiatives

We accelerate market transformation by inspiring, supporting and empowering our members to advance new ideas through impactful initiatives.

Meet the Team

University of Washington Staff

Up Close and Personal

CLF staff members introduce themselves with personal essays

Board

Past Staff and Students

​2022-2023 Carbon Leadership Forum Impact Report

A changed landscape for embodied carbon action

Over the past five years, we’ve seen the emergence of an unprecedented global focus on climate mitigation, carbon sequestration, technological creativity and innovation. We’ve seen more sophisticated carbon assessments, innovations in material production, a sharper focus on rigorous interpretation of carbon claims, and significant shifts in industry practice supporting decarbonization. And within the building industry, we’ve seen evidence of revolutionary change for both materials
and the buildings that incorporate them.