UK · Updated 2026 · Explainer
Part Z & Embodied Carbon: Using Surplus Reclaimed Structural Timber in Leicester
Whole-life carbon assessments are becoming mandatory on Leicester projects. Reclaimed and surplus timber is the fastest lever for reducing A1–A3 embodied carbon in East Midlands. This 2026 guide shows the numbers and the evidence you need.
Embodied carbon savings
Reclaimed timber typically avoids 60–95% of the A1–A3 embodied carbon of a new equivalent. On a mid-size Leicester 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 Leicester
- Yard invoice with weight/quantity
- Photos and batch references
- Manufacturer EPD comparison for baseline
- Site delivery notes
Cost of timber vs carbon benefit
| Grade | Typical price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Job-lot / bulk | £380 per m³ | Merchant clearance, palletised |
| Standard graded | £890 per m³ | Sorted, ready-to-fit stock |
| Heritage / premium | £1,400 per m³ | Character 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.
+How do I check for woodworm?
Fresh exit holes with pale dust are active; dark, weathered holes are historic.
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