Strategic Academic Collaborations: EZCarbon Capstone Project Showcased at SUTD InspireCon 2025

Bridging the gap between academic research and practical application, DP Sustainable Design’s (DPSD) partnership with final year students at the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) has culminated in the creation of EZCarbon. The research prototype explores an intuitive method to embed embodied carbon assessment directly into the design workflow by integrating the its plugin with 3D modelling software in real time. This empowers architects and sustainability consultants to perform comprehensive whole-life carbon calculations of upfront embodied carbon footprint and make carbon-conscious decisions during the critical early stages of design.

Bridging academic learning and professional practice, SUTD’s capstone programme allows its students to demonstrate skills and knowledge while gaining exposure to real-world issues and application under the tutelage of our director Er. Yong Siew Onn, and associates Nhu Pham and Foo Kai Ting. Beyond enabling us to meaningfully engage with aspiring graduates as industry partner and mentor, the programme also allows us to tap into academia and contribute to research to advance professional practice and real-world solutions for a better and more sustainable built environment. EZCarbon, initiated by SUTD students, is currently being further developed by DPSD’s internal carbon team as a tool for streamlining carbon calculation process.

The prototype was exhibited at SUTD’s InspireCon 2025 which showcased over 80 outstanding displays, including capstone projects by the graduating class of 2025. Each demonstrated the students’ creative application of knowledge, concepts and techniques in real-world, multidisciplinary challenges faced by companies.

InspireCon 2025 was held on 14th April at the SUTD Campus Centre and graced by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam.