UK · Updated 2026 · Explainer

Part Z & Embodied Carbon: Using Surplus Reclaimed Granite Setts in Edinburgh

Whole-life carbon assessments are becoming mandatory on Edinburgh projects. Reclaimed and surplus granite setts is the fastest lever for reducing A1–A3 embodied carbon in Scotland. This 2026 guide shows the numbers and the evidence you need.

Embodied carbon savings

Reclaimed granite setts typically avoids 60–95% of the A1–A3 embodied carbon of a new equivalent. On a mid-size Edinburgh project this can equal 4–12 tonnes CO₂e avoided.

Part Z timeline and what it requires

  • Whole-life carbon assessment on all major projects
  • Reporting to a central UK register
  • Alignment with RICS WLCA methodology
  • Evidence of material provenance

Building a compliant evidence pack in Edinburgh

  • Yard invoice with weight/quantity
  • Photos and batch references
  • Manufacturer EPD comparison for baseline
  • Site delivery notes

Cost of granite setts vs carbon benefit

GradeTypical priceNotes
Job-lot / bulk£65 per m²Merchant clearance, palletised
Standard graded£98 per m²Sorted, ready-to-fit stock
Heritage / premium£130 per m²Character grade, hand-picked

Frequently asked questions

+Is Part Z law yet?

Not yet fully — it's a private-members bill and industry alignment. Adoption on public and BREEAM projects is already widespread.

+How is carbon quantified for surplus?

A1–A3 emissions are usually set to zero for genuine reclaim; A4 (transport) uses actual distance.

+Can granite setts take vehicles?

Yes — full carriageway-rated at 200mm depth or 100mm on a bound base.

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