Analysis of current practice and future potentials of LCA in a BIM-based design process in Germany

Session
TU.3.A || Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Life Cycle Assessment

Authors
Schumacher, Rebecca; Theißen, Sebastian; Höper, Jannick; Drzymalla, Jan; Hollberg, Alexander; Forth, Kasimir; Schneider-Marin, Patricia; Wimmer, Reinhard; Bahlau, Sascha; Meins-Becker, Anica; Lambertz, Michaela; Lambertz, Michaela

Abstract
The construction and building sector, responsible for 39% of global greenhouse gas emissions, is undergoing a fundamental digital transformation enabled by Building Information Modelling (BIM). Integrating life cycle assessments (LCA) in digital building design processes enables early evaluation of embodied impacts. This connection offers opportunities to generate predictive parameters to efficiently use environmental optimizations potentials. The aim of this study is to investigate current barriers and incentives for practitioners to use LCA in combination with BIM in practice in Germany. Based on criteria identified in a systematic literature review, a survey amongst 200 practitioners is conducted, analysing five different use cases. The evaluated criteria are added value, perception of relevance, intention, age, data availability, standardization, external demand and usability. The results present a recognised added value of integrating LCA in BIM from the perspective of all use case groups. Currently, measures in a political and social context have higher potentials, i. e. are more urgent to implement, than measures in the information technology context, whereas priorities vary depending on the use case. The greatest drivers are external demand and pressure in forms of stricter political requirements and more demand from the public-sector. The presented insights, trends and need for action can support implementing procedures for achieving the urgent climate goals of the construction sector strategically through digital transformation.