A novel framework for carbon-neutral building design based on the integration of blockchain, building information modelling, and life cycle assessment

Lack of data security and interoperability remains the major obstacles to complex carbon-neutral building design processes among large number of architects and engineers. Blockchain is a distributed ledger and allows information transactions to be managed in a decentralised and secure way. Building information modelling (BIM) can centralise all data and information in the same three-dimensional model. Life cycle optimisation can minimise embodied and operating carbon emissions during the building’s whole life span. In this context, a novel framework for carbon-neutral building design is developed and designed based on the integration of blockchain, building information modelling, and life cycle optimisation. Blockchain is adopted to keep a record of any changes in architecture design, energy system design, and carbon footprint. BIM model is used to present the latest architecture design in a threedimensional model, along with the latest information regarding energy system design and carbon footprint. Life cycle assessment is conducted to evaluate the trade-off between embodied carbon and operating carbon emissions and select appropriate parameters for architecture and energy system design. Information regarding future weather and material properties is also provided in the database. The proposed framework is tested on a real project setting to design a low-carbon industrial building. It is expected that the proposed framework can assist in designing different types of carbon-neutral buildings and achieving the Net-Zero ambition. It will provide practitioners and researchers with constructive information for the integrated use of blockchain, BIM, and life cycle assessment while creating awareness in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries.