Certified Energy Auditor Practice Exam

Which building material is noted for having minimal embodied energy?

1. Concrete

2. Wood

3. Brick

4. Structural Steel

The correct answer is: Structural Steel

Wood is noted for having minimal embodied energy compared to other building materials. Embodied energy refers to the total energy required to extract, process, manufacture, and transport a material. Wood, as a natural material, generally requires less energy in its production cycle, especially when sourced sustainably. The growth process of trees captures carbon and uses solar energy, giving wood a lower overall embodied energy footprint. This contrasts with materials like concrete, brick, and structural steel, which require significant energy input for extraction, manufacturing, and transportation, resulting in higher embodied energy values. Concrete production involves the extensive use of heat and significant raw material processing. Brick production similarly requires firing in kilns, consuming substantial energy. Structural steel is produced from iron ore, which undergoes intensive extraction and processing, resulting in high embodied energy. Therefore, in the context of minimizing energy usage in building materials, wood stands out distinctly.