The Role of Embodied Carbon in Sustainable Construction: A Review of Qatar's Practices and Perspectives

Abstract

This study explores the urgent need for an embodied carbon (EC) assessment framework within Qatar's construction sector, driven by the country's rapid development and high carbon intensity in construction materials, such as cement and steel. Employing a systematic literature review through the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology and Visualization of Similarities (VOS) viewer for bibliometric analysis, this study identifies major gaps in Qatar-specific EC data and regulation. It highlights global best practices, particularly those from countries with mandated EC regulations, and discusses their potential adaptation to Qatar's unique environmental and economic context. This study advocates the establishment of a comprehensive EC database to inform construction practices aligned with Qatar's sustainability goals under its National Vision 2030. The findings suggest that a regionally adapted EC framework would significantly aid Qatar in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, given the country's heavy reliance on energy-intensive materials and its extreme climate. The study concludes with recommendations for the policy integration of EC assessments in Qatar's building sector, aiming to support sustainable urban development and climate resilience in the face of intensifying environmental challenges.