Submitted by Paula Block on Thu, 12/06/2025 - 15:10
Title: Exploring the Embodied Ecological Impacts of Construction Materials and beyond
Abstract: This seminar examines the ecological impacts of raw material extraction for construction, a foundational yet often overlooked phase in the life cycle of building materials. From mining and quarrying to logging, extraction processes drive habitat destruction, resource depletion, and significant biodiversity loss. We explore how life cycle assessment (LCA) methods are evolving to better account for these impacts, with a focus on measuring biodiversity loss alongside carbon and energy metrics. Through case studies and emerging research, the talk highlights the need for more transparent, ecologically grounded assessments to guide material choices and foster a more responsible built environment.
Lora Brill Bio:
Lora leads the Sustainability Services for Ramboll Buildings, implementing Ramboll’s global sustainability strategy and across several countries. She has 22 years’ experience working with organisations of all sizes to advance their sustainability journey in the built environment. Lora holds a Master’s in Public Policy from Harvard and brings a holistic perspective to sustainability, drawing from her experience in town planning, housing development, ESG strategy, and investment management.
Brogan MacDonald Bio:
Brogan is a Chartered Civil Engineer and Chartered Environmentalist with experience working in UK and Singapore. She was the winner of ‘Best Young Woman Engineer’ in 2020 Women in Construction and Engineering Awards.
Brogan is Head of Sustainability in Ramboll’s Building Structures team, where she leads work on embodied carbon, circularity, nature, climate justice, and regenerative design strategies. She leads Ramboll’s commitment to ConcreteZero and SteelZero, and sits on the steering group for Structural Engineers Declare.