Emerging architects should focus on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) when designing sustainable buildings for some important reasons:

1. Understanding Impact:

   • LCA helps us see the environmental effects of a building throughout its entire life. This includes everything from getting the materials, to building it, using it, and what happens when it’s no longer in use.
   • Studies show that about 70% of a building's total energy is used while people are living and working in it.

2. Choosing Materials:

   • LCA helps architects pick better materials that lower carbon emissions. For example, using recycled materials can reduce emissions by as much as 30%.

3. Following Rules:

   • More than 50 countries now have laws that require LCA for building projects, showing how important it is becoming.

4. What Homeowners Want:

   • A study from 2019 revealed that 68% of people buying homes are ready to pay extra for homes that are sustainable, showing a strong preference for eco-friendly options.

By using LCA, architects can create designs that are better for the planet while also reinforcing the importance of protecting our environment in the building profession.