Assessing Embodied Carbon in Structural Models: A Building Information Modelling-Based Approach

Abstract

The construction industry’s recognition of the importance of embodied carbon (EC) drives the need for streamlined early-stage EC assessment. The adoption of building information modelling (BIM) allows for integrating EC assessment into current workflows, as BIM data are fundamental to the assessment. This paper presents a BIM-based prototype tool developed to provide a quick and comprehensive assessment of EC in structural models. The prototype utilises visual programming language (VPL) and a database of external carbon factors to automate the assessment process and displays the results in a visualisation model. The prototype also offers high-level insights to support informed decision making and a detailed analysis to identify areas for optimisation. The results of this study indicate the effectiveness of the prototype in identifying EC hot spots and enabling informed decision making for optimisation. From an academic perspective, the study addresses a research gap by demonstrating the viability of integrating EC assessment in the early stages of design. In terms of practical implications, the presented prototype tool offers practitioners a solution that streamlines the assessment of EC in structural models, enabling informed decision making and identification of optimisation opportunities. In terms of policy, the research is aligned with the industry’s recognition of EC’s importance and supports sustainable building practices towards achieving net zero carbon goals.