Frequently Asked Questions

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The Carbon Calculator is a purpose-built emissions measurement and reporting tool developed specifically for the fit-out and refurbishment sector. Unlike generic carbon accounting platforms, it’s tailored to the operational realities of building owners/occupiers, architects, designers and builders, accommodating the complexity of construction inputs and aligning data outputs with building lifecycle stages. It ensures technical rigour while being practical and accessible for on-the-ground users.

The Carbon Calculator was developed with Pangolin Associates, accredited consultants under Climate Active and registered auditors under the NGER Act. The tool uses emissions factors from the Australian National Greenhouse Accounts, IELabs and AusLCA database. All methodologies and assumptions are transparent, traceable, and auditable. By using the tool, users can benchmark results based on current data and compile it across multiple projects to continuously improve sustainability measures.

It accounts for Scope 1 (direct emissions from owned or controlled sources), Scope 2 (indirect emissions from purchased electricity), and Scope 3 (all other indirect emissions in the value chain). This includes stationary fuels, electricity, water, waste, transport fuels, flights, accommodation and procurement of trades, including products and freight.

It covers both. The Carbon Calculator captures emissions from embodied sources (e.g. procurement of materials, freight) through the trades’ expenses and operational emissions during the construction phase (utilities, transports and waste). It gives builders actionable insight into total project emissions, enabling meaningful reduction strategies. As the Carbon Calculator is used, it will not only be an important tool to use on projects but will also enable Green Mill to leverage learnings and insights from it to continually evolve and enhance useability and reporting

While use of the Carbon Calculator is currently voluntary, the direction of policy in Australia is clear: mandatory climate disclosure is coming for large entities, and sustainability performance is increasingly influencing procurement and planning approvals. Companies using this tool now are positioning themselves ahead of regulation and are better prepared for future reporting demands.

Emissions factors are sourced from National Greenhouse Accounts (NGAs) and IELab (Industry Ecology Virtual Laboratory) database used by Climate Active methodology. Where applicable, regionspecific or supplier-specific emissions factors can be used for greater accuracy. The methodology used is transparent and available in the report.

Carbon offsetting can be delivered through Greenfleet, a leading Australian environmental not-forprofit organisation. Their projects restore native ecosystems, improve soil and water quality, and provide habitat for native wildlife. These forests are legally protected for up to 100 years, ensuring long-term environmental integrity.

The Carbon Calculator will support builders in achieving cost-savings, particularly when used across projects because learnings can be used to generate savings on future builds. Emissions reductions identify efficiencies - such as using locally sourced materials, improving waste management, or reducing transport miles. The tool supports builders in balancing both cost and sustainability. In addition, by investing in green construction today, we’re not just creating livable spaces, but also enhancing the value of properties, making it more attractive to future buyers who prioritize environmental responsibility.