Center for the Built Environment

Addressing the pressing issue of water scarcity and environmental impact, this research investigates the embodied water impacts of landscape architecture strategies. Employing life cycle assessment (LCA) and water footprint methodologies, the study explores hardscape, vegetation, and building elements within urban landscapes. Through a case study of the Bauer Wurster Hall East Courtyard at UC Berkeley, various landscape design scenarios are analyzed for their embodied water impacts. The findings reveal large differentials in embodied water between scenarios. The original site design showcases a total of 1440 kL embodied water, while the remodeled version amplifies to 5820 kL. Notably, concrete and steel emerge as primary contributors to embodied water, despite their relatively low mass proportions on-site. Concrete paving, in particular, demonstrates a significant impact, outweighing other paving materials like asphalt and brick. The findings emphasize the need for informed decision-making in landscape architecture, considering both operational and embodied water impacts. The observed increase in embodied water post-remodeling highlights the necessity for sustainable design choices, especially concerning material selection. Future research directions could focus on refining embodied water analyses, including vegetation impacts, and validating regional data sources. By integrating these insights into practice, landscape architects can steer towards more sustainable and water-efficient design paradigms, crucial for mitigating water scarcity and bolstering environmental resilience in urban landscapes.