Arup and Autodesk launch joint initiative to support carbon reduction in the built environment

The initiative is the first formal engagement under a new collaboration model introduced by Autodesk, designed to facilitate wider adoption of carbon assessment technologies and encourage sustainable outcomes across the built environment.

With the built environment currently accounting for an estimated 34% of global energy-related carbon emissions - more than the transport sector- the partnership reflects growing industry urgency to adopt practical, scalable approaches to decarbonisation. As global building stock is projected to double by 2060, the two companies aim to support the sector in integrating carbon performance into project decision-making at earlier stages.

Arup will contribute its technical and practical experience in lifecycle carbon data, drawing on insights from its proprietary data schema. This will support Autodesk’s development of integrated carbon management capabilities across its platforms.

According to the companies, the collaboration is expected to engage asset owners and investors in particular, while also creating opportunities for additional industry participation as the work evolves.

Commenting on the partnership, Jo da Silva, Arup Fellow and global sustainable development leader, said the agreement aligns with wider industry decarbonisation targets, “By combining our expertise in whole life carbon with Autodesk’s technology platforms, we’re working to produce data-led tools that support design-stage decisions aimed at reducing emissions and costs. The collaboration contributes to broader efforts like the Buildings Breakthrough initiative and reflects the growing emphasis on systemic industry action.”

Joe Speicher, chief sustainability officer at Autodesk, added, “By working directly with companies like Arup, we’re better able to validate and evolve our carbon management technologies in ways that support real-world applications across the AECO industry.”

The collaboration comes amid broader changes in the construction sector, where companies are navigating complex trade-offs around cost, regulatory compliance, performance, and environmental responsibility. Industry research has suggested that digital tools, if widely implemented, could play a significant role in reducing global emissions—potentially cutting up to 20% by 2050 across key sectors, including construction.