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Bill

Bill

AB 1704

Greenhouse gases: embodied carbon building materials.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mark González

AB 1704 establishes greenhouse gas standards for embodied carbon in building materials to reduce construction-sector emissions in California.

From committee: Amend, and do pass as amended and re-refer to Com. on APPR. (Ayes 6. Noes 0.) (June 17).
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Bill Summary · AB 1704

Legislative bill overview

AB 1704 addresses greenhouse gas emissions from building materials by establishing standards or requirements related to "embodied carbon"—the emissions generated during material production, transportation, and installation. The bill is currently in early legislative stages with amendments being considered by the Natural Resources Committee.

Why is this important

Building materials account for a significant portion of California's construction-related emissions. Regulating embodied carbon could influence procurement practices across public and private construction projects, potentially driving demand for lower-carbon alternatives and affecting material costs and supply chains statewide.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact on builders and manufacturers: Stricter embodied carbon standards may increase material costs and compliance burdens, particularly for small businesses and contractors
  • Implementation and measurement complexity: Defining, tracking, and verifying embodied carbon across diverse materials and suppliers presents technical and administrative challenges
  • Scope and exemptions: Disagreement likely over which building types, projects, and materials are covered, and whether existing structures or only new construction are affected

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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