Lu, K.; Deng, X. and Zhai, X. (2026) Openbim-based simulation of building operational carbon under different information availability. Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, 15(5), pp. 1751-1780. ISSN 2046-6099
Abstract
Purpose – The operational carbon simulation in the building design stage is significant to life cycle carbon emissions. However, this process is challenging to reuse multi-source building information modeling (BIM) under different information availability. Thus, this study suggests an OpenBIM-based method for operational carbon simulation to integrate heterogeneous BIM models with different data accuracy, which can be applied across various stages of building design. Design/methodology/approach – This study suggests a three-step method for operational carbon simulation using industry foundation classes (IFC). This method uses IfcSpace as the fundamental unit for limited data while using IfcDistributionElement for abundant data. Additionally, a case study proves the method's accuracy and efficiency by comparing it with existing tools. Findings – Although the information availability is different, the simulation results of operational carbon are similar between schematic design and construction document design, with 1816.4 tCO2e/year and 1962.4 tCO2e/year, respectively. Furthermore, the case study shows a 16.9% carbon reduction through scheme optimization. Originality/value – This study offers an approach that can directly utilize the multi-source heterogeneous BIM models to save time and reduce labor consumption. Using the space and the element as calculation units extends the simulation theory for evolving information accessibility across design stages.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | building design; building information modeling; data availability; industry foundation classes; openbim; operational carbon |
| Index terms: | carbon emission, carbon reduction, efficiency, building information modelling, design stage, design and construction, industry foundation classes, operational carbon, accessibility, consumption, life cycle, case study, accuracy, methodology, building design |
| Subjects: | performance management, data collection methods, value management, inclusive design, contractual arrangements, research methods, architectural design, professional development, professional practice, climate science, information systems, computational design, consumer economics |
| Topics: | Quality Management, Information Management, Project Management, Research Practice, Digital Applications, Stakeholder Management, Procurement, Sustainability, Design Practice |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTE |
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