36% lower carbon emissions in housing project using climate-smart construction methods
Research results from the Mistra Carbon Exit program show that the Hestur residential project in Kista, Stockholm, achieved a 36% lower carbon footprint compared to similar developments. The reduced emissions were primarily made possible through climate-improved prefabricated concrete, structural optimization, and careful material choices.
The study was conducted by Ida Karlsson, PhD researcher within Mistra Carbon Exit at Chalmers University of Technology, who followed the project and calculated the results.
“Hestur is a clear example of how it’s already possible to build with a significantly lower climate impact today. The project team set common goals early on and proved that focusing on resource efficiency brings major gains — both for the climate and the economy,” says Karlsson.
The project was a collaboration between ByggVesta (developer), AF Gruppen (contractor), and Consolis Strängbetong (structure supplier), sharing a common goal of advancing more sustainable building methods.
New methods bring climate benefits
The Hestur development includes 220 rental and student apartments in Kista. Its innovative climate measures are part of ByggVesta and Consolis’s joint effort to develop more sustainable construction techniques.
“It’s very encouraging that the study confirms our hypothesis — that climate and cost efficiency go hand in hand. The progress we’re driving in the industry paves the way for genuinely sustainable housing with net-zero emissions within 25 years,” says Marcus Svensson, CEO of ByggVesta Development.
“To reach that goal, we need continued collaboration, innovation in materials, recycling, electrification, and stricter industrial standards.”
The prefabricated concrete elements feature Green Spine Line® components and climate-optimized concrete from Consolis Strängbetong, where cement content was reduced and partly replaced by alternative binders.
Results (see fact sheet for details)
Carbon footprint: 207 kg CO₂e/m² gross floor area
Reduction: 36% compared to similar prefabricated projects (based on KTH reference data)
Per resident: 8,400 kg CO₂e — over 50% lower than the typical 18,000 kg CO₂e for concrete buildings
Material savings were also achieved by optimizing hollow-core slabs (floors and ceilings) and reducing wall thickness in upper floors — measures that lowered material use without compromising performance, such as strength or acoustics.
Project partners: ByggVesta (developer), AF Gruppen (contractor), Consolis Strängbetong (frame supplier)
Pictured: Marcus Svensson, CEO ByggVesta Development; Ida Karlsson, PhD candidate, Chalmers University of Technology; Stefan Ohlsson, CEO Consolis Strängbetong.
