An integrated blockchain, building information modelling and life cycle assessment framework for carbon footprint tracking and low-carbon building design

Abstract

A lack of data security and interoperability are significant challenges in low-carbon building design due to the involvement of numerous architects, engineers, and carbon auditors. This study proposes a novel framework that integrates blockchain, building information modelling (BIM), and life cycle assessment (LCA) to enhance data management and decision-making for low-carbon building design. Blockchain, as a distributed ledger, ensures data security by maintaining an immutable record of architectural design changes, energy system configurations, and carbon footprints. BIM visualises all the design information in a three-dimensional model to ensure real-time updates of energy and carbon performance. LCA assesses the trade-off between embodied carbon and operating carbon emissions across a building’s life span, optimising architectural and energy system design decisions. The proposed framework establishes a secure and transparent workflow by integrating blockchain, BIM, and LCA into an iterative design process. Smart contracts facilitate the automatic verification of design parameters, enabling architects and engineers to adjust their designs when carbon footprint targets and energy-saving requirements are unmet. Additionally, the framework incorporates a database of future weather profiles, material properties, and inventory information to support accurate and informed decision-making. This study enhances data security, improves interoperability and supports the iterative refinement of low-carbon building designs. The framework was validated on an industrial building project, demonstrating its effectiveness in designing low-carbon buildings and its potential to contribute to global net-zero ambitions. By offering a structured approach to integrating blockchain, BIM, and LCA, this study offers valuable insights for practitioners and researchers in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries.