Global demand for sustainable urban development has increased amid the accelerating effects of climate change, underscoring the need for resilient infrastructure and green buildings. This review examines the relationship among digital transformation, climate resilience, and sustainability in the built environment. It combines new developments in smart technologies that improve energy efficiency, resource optimization, and adaptive design, including blockchain, digital twins, building information modeling (BIM), the Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence (AI). The study looks at how digital innovation helps with disaster preparedness, predictive maintenance, carbon footprint reduction, and climate-responsive architecture. The review identifies new routes toward net-zero, climate-resilient urban ecosystems by examining case studies and international best practices.
Infrastructure Resilience and Vulnerability Analysis
Smart-building structural health monitoring (SHM) requires a unified digital representation capable of integrating heterogeneous sensing devices, continuous structural states, and burst-oriented post-event assessment without embedding device-specific logic throughout the software stack. This study proposes a semantic digital twin architecture in which SensorType, DeviceProfile, and site metadata form a semantic single source of truth and generate W3C Web of Things Thing Descriptions at runtime. The resulting WoT-driven contract governs field mapping, schema-on-write persistence, generic API access, state visualization, and engineering-threshold evaluation. To accommodate heterogeneous temporal behavior, event-driven seismic assessment and state-driven construction tilt monitoring are orchestrated as distinct workflows that share persistence, notification, and observability services while retaining separate timing contracts. Controlled extension experiments required no manual data-layer, backend, ingestion, or frontend modification, with a runtime source-hash difference of zero. Under a ten-building seismic-event burst, continuous write-lag p95 changed by ā20 ms from a 969 ms baseline while all event jobs completed without restart or out-of-memory conditions. The ingestion path further sustained 71,040 points/s at 300 sensors with no dropped points. These results demonstrate that WoT-driven semantic interoperability and eventāstate workflow orchestration can provide an extensible integration foundation for smart-building SHM within a clearly defined configuration boundary.
Mr. Harshal Kadam, Mr. Mayur Prajapati, Mr. Amit Yadav, Prof. Sonali Karthik
ConQuote Connect is a smart digital platform designed to solve common problems in the construction industry, such as unclear project details, payment delays, miscommunication and the difficulty of finding trustworthy contractors. It creates a single, streamlined space where builders can post their construction projects and contractors can submit structured and easy to compare quotations. A key part of the system is the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM), which allows builders to upload 3D models of their projects. These models help both parties clearly understand the scope of work and visually track progress through milestones, such as marking when the foundation, floors, or roofing are completed. To make payments more secure, transparent, and fair, ConQuote Connect uses blockchain-powered smart contracts. These contracts safely hold project funds and only release payments when a builder confirms that a milestone has been completed through the BIM model. The platform also includes AI tools that assist in comparing contractor quotes and helping builders make faster, more informed and data backed decisions. When a contractor successfully completes a project, they receive a digital certificate in the form of an NFT, which becomes part of their verifiable reputation and track record on the platform. Both builders and contractors have their own personalized dashboards to manage tasks, communicate updates, track progress and approve or verify completed work. By combining BIM, blockchain and AI in one easy to use system, ConQuote Connect offers a modern, transparent and trustworthy way to manage construction projects reducing disputes, saving time and improving industry collaboration.
Efficient material traceability and lifecycle management are essential for achieving circular utilization in indoor renovation projects. This study proposes a reversible decoration framework based on a Digital Material Cycle Map (DMCM) to support the tracking, recovery, and reuse of construction materials throughout their service lifecycle. The framework integrates Digital Product Passport concepts, RFID- and QR-based identification, distributed ledger technology, and lifecycle data management to establish a unified material information architecture. A modular and detachable construction strategy is further developed using standardized interfaces and non-destructive disassembly mechanisms, enabling efficient component recovery and reuse. In addition, a material traceability workflow is introduced to support condition assessment, lifecycle auditing, and recycling decision-making based on dynamically updated records. The framework promotes information sharing among manufacturers, designers, contractors, and recycling organizations through standardized data interfaces. By combining material identification, information transmission, and lifecycle monitoring, the proposed approach provides an engineering-oriented solution for digital material governance, intelligent sensing, and distributed infrastructure management.
The construction industry faces several difficulties in warehouse management along with construction industry&s;s supply chain that is characterized by complex, multi-tiered interactions involving material suppliers, transporters, contractors, and on-site project managers. Traditional management systems suffer from delayed information exchange, lack of transparency, and vulnerability to fraud or errors, often leading to cost overruns and schedule delays. The purpose of the current paper is to suggest an Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) and blockchain-based supply chain management model to be used in the construction industry. AIoT involves the use of IoT devices or RFID tags, GPS trackers, and environmental sensors along with AI algorithmic methods to conduct predictive analytics, anomaly detection, and automated decision-making in the edge or the cloud. Blockchain technology offers the benefit of immutable and transparent records that cannot be altered and is tamper resistant, which facilitates trust among the distributed stakeholders and automates the workflows of the contract through the use of smart contracts. The architecture that is proposed has three layers: 1 AIoT real-time data acquisition sensing and analytics, 2 Secure data storage blockchain ledger and smart contract execution, and 3 A stakeholder application dashboard. In order to test our framework, we conducted a simulation of a scenario with prefabricated steel parts as supply. We determined the effectiveness of the system in tracking items, recording events as swiftly as possible, the security of the process and the efficiency of the whole process. The findings were also staggering: the accuracy of the tracking increased by 92 percent, the reporting is 58 percent quicker, and the prevention of fraud is much more robust than the traditional ERP systems. Such results demonstrate that the convergence of the AIoT and blockchain technologies can contribute to the solution of current issues in the supply chain in construction, which will result in the improved and more data-driven project management. Second, we will experiment with this approach through real life projects and how it could be used with Building Information Modelling (BIM) platforms.
The construction industry is undergoing a significant transformation with the adoption of decentralized models, which leverage distributed decision-making, collaborative networks, and advanced technologies such as blockchain, digital twins, and artificial intelligence (AI). These innovations promise enhanced transparency, efficiency, and stakeholder engagement in high- rise building projects. However, decentralization introduces unique risksāspanning technical, social, economic, legal, and environmental domainsāthat challenge traditional risk management frameworks. This research systematically identifies and categorizes these risks, emphasizing their implications for decentralized high-rise construction. Key technical risks include design clashes and quality inconsistencies due to fragmented workflows, while social risks encompass labor disputes and community opposition. Economic risks arise from budget fragmentation and supply chain volatility, legal risks stem from contractual ambiguities and regulatory non- compliance, and environmental risks involve waste mismanagement and increased carbon footprints. To address these challenges, the study proposes a comprehensive risk management framework integrating emerging technologies. For instance, Building Information Modeling (BIM) and digital twins enable real-time clash detection and quality assurance, blockchain ensures transparent and automated contract execution, and AI-driven analytics predict safety hazards and cost overruns. The framework is validated through a case study of Skyline Towers in Dubai, where decentralized strategies reduced design errors by 45% and payment delays by 80%. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining a systematic literature review with empirical analysis of real-world projects. Findings highlight the critical role of stakeholder alignment, hybrid governance models, and sustainable practices in mitigating risks. The study concludes with actionable recommendations for policymakers and industry practitioners, advocating for standardized digital protocols, adaptive risk governance, and proactive environmental controls. By bridging the gap between technological innovation and risk management, this research contributes a forward-looking framework to enhance resilience and efficiency in decentralized high-rise construction, ensuring sustainable urban development in an increasingly complex industry landscape.
Amer A. Hijazi, Ali Alashwal, Milad Baghalzadeh Shishehgarkhaneh, Rodrigo N. Calheiros
. The integration of Blockchain with Building Information Modelling (BIM) addresses persistent challenges of transparency, accountability, interoperability, and trust in construction. Yet, systematic insights into BlockchaināBIM implementation remain limited. This study conducts a Systematic Literature Review (SLR), identifying six lifecycle stages where integration occurs, supported by 29 workflows and 30 technical methods. Applications include blockchain-secured design reviews, provenance tracking, automated procurement, smart payments, and immutable handover records. BIM data typesādesign metadata, cost and schedule data, IoT evidence, and compliance recordsāare mapped to smart contract functions and blockchain platforms. Key mechanisms such as hybrid on/off-chain storage, cryptographic hashing, access controls, and watermarking are comparatively analyzed. Results show permissioned platforms (e.g., Hyperledger Fabric) enable controlled collaboration, while public ones (e.g., Ethereum) support transparency and tokenization. The review provides a structured taxonomy and conceptual framework to advance theory and guide BlockchaināBIM adoption in complex construction projects.
Malintha Fernando, Nimasha Dilukshi Hulathdoowage, B. A. K. S. Perera
Construction projects are complex and demand advanced digital technologies to enhance automation, transparency, and efficiency. As a result, tools like enterprise resource planning (ERP), smart contracts, and electronic tendering (e-tendering) are being adopted. However, these technologies often operate separately rather than as a unified system. Although there are a few cases where ERP is integrated with smart contracts, integration with e-tendering remains largely absent. Therefore, this study creates a unified framework combining these three technologies to improve automation, transparency, and efficiency in the construction industry. Thus, a scoping review was conducted, selecting 50 publications from 2014 to 2024 for in-depth analysis. A content analysis was performed to identify the limitations of ERP systems, and key functions and features of ERP systems, e-tendering, and smart contracts. The proposed unified framework focuses on how these technologies can function synergistically to improve different areas in construction projects. The study identified 12 areas that can be streamlined. After the scoping review, five expert interviews were conducted to validate the framework. Experts critically commented on the applicability, benefits, limitations and strategies, in line with the framework. The study highlights that, by centralizing key functions into a single integrated system, the unified framework streamlines operations, enhances transparency, and enables real-time, evidence-based decision-making across complex construction environments. Furthermore, the study highlights that by addressing the inefficiencies of fragmented data management and nonintegrated systems, the proposed framework offers a comprehensive solution to persistent industry challenges like cost overruns, delays, and lack of transparency. The study further critically analyzes how the limitations identified concerning ERP systems are addressed through the unified system. Based on the findings and the unified framework, future research areas are proposed.
Buildings are shifting from static, environment centric control schemes toward dynamic systems that adaptively respond to individual occupants. To clarify how this transition affects building operation, this paper reviews recent advances in occupant centric control from three dimensions: physical control systems, data and network infrastructure, and occupant interaction mechanisms. The review draws from research in building science and computing and organizes key developments using the trinity of transformation, resilience, and sustainability. The results show that the shift to occupant centric requires high-density sensing, distributed data processing, interoperable protocols, and feedback models that integrate occupant behavior. The paper also discusses how concepts introduced from Web3 can support decentralized data management and long-term trust in occupant participation. This work provides a technical and conceptual basis for researchers and practitioners involved in the digital transformation of smart building operation.
While traditional AI and data-driven facilities management approaches have improved building operational efficiency, they remain constrained by centralized organizational structures that are vulnerable to cyber attacks, limited contextual understanding, and decision-making processes that exclude key stakeholders from governance. This paper introduces a novel AI- and data-driven distributed governance framework for smart building management that integrates decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), digital twins, large language models (LLMs), and blockchain technology. The framework enables transparent collective decision-making through a DAO governance platform, implements data-driven management using IoT and digital twins, incorporates LLM-based virtual assistants for enhanced decision support, and utilizes blockchain for secure building automation. A full-stack decentralized application was developed to facilitate user interaction with these integrated components. The system was evaluated for cost efficiency, scalability, data security, and usability using the System Usability Scale (SUS). Expert interviews were also conducted to assess its practical benefits and implementation challenges.
Traditional facility management often relies on centralized decision-making structures that limit stakeholder participation, leading to misalignment with occupant needs and reduced satisfaction. This paper proposes a novel blockchain- and Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO)-based framework for community-based facilities management in smart buildings. The framework comprises two key components: a decentralized governance platform that facilitates transparent collective decision-making through blockchain-based voting, and a maintenance management platform with an incentivization mechanism that encourages building occupants to actively contribute to facility upkeep through tokenized rewards. System evaluation includes cost analysis, scalability, data security considerations, usability testing, and semi-structured interviews with facility managers and researchers to assess the platform's usefulness, challenges, and adoption potential. The findings demonstrate the framework's potential as a viable incentivization solution for engaging stakeholders in the collective upkeep and improvement of building infrastructure.
Sara Antinozzi, Liliana Cecere, Francesco Colace, Angelo Lorusso Ā· 6 authors
The integration of Building Information Modelling (BIM), blockchain technology, and smart contracts presents a significant opportunity to fundamentally reevaluate the administration of information and contracts in construction projects. This article introduces a distributed system that amalgamates BIM models, decentralized storage via IPFS, semantic oracles, and smart contracts to automate essential procedures such as versioning, design verification, and payment issuance contingent upon execution milestones. This proof of concept, built on a Proof-of-Authority blockchain using actual IFC models, demonstrates the technical viability of the method and evaluates its performance, constraints, and operational implications. The applications of SAL automation and design review demonstrate that integrating off-chain verification with on-chain documentation can reduce uncertainty, enhance accountability, and enable hitherto unattainable forms of contract automation. The suggested framework acknowledges the need for improved information standards and Oracle governance, demonstrating that integrating BIM and distributed technologies can significantly transform the digitalisation of the construction sector.
Yaxian Dong, Zijun Zhan, Daniel Mawunyo Doe, Zhu Han Ā· 5 authors
In the project-oriented construction industry, recruiting qualified workers who can finish the required tasks in a limited time is important. However, the high turnover rate in the construction workforce poses a challenge in verifying applicant information, leading to potential issues like information falsification and inaccurate assessments due to information asymmetry. Additionally, the industryās male-dominated nature may foster stereotype-based biases, particularly concerning sensitive attributes (e.g., gender). Such situations contribute to unfair competition among applicants. The construction industry is also experiencing new technologies like BIM, AI, and Blockchain. Their integration shows potential for automation, fairness, information security, and trustworthiness in recruitment. To build a diverse and competent workforce, we propose a decentralized digital resume-based job applicant screening and appraisal framework via BIM, AI, and Blockchain. First, we develop a blockchain job applicant data model that distinguishes between personal privacy data and work-related data for record and storage. A permissioned Blockchain is then designed to facilitate partial transparency for potential employers while ensuring the confidentiality of applicantsā sensitive information. Specifically, for personal privacy data, sensitive attributes (gender, race, etc.) are safeguarded via encryption, and data (address, etc.) about company preferences (the desired distance range from the company, etc.) is also secured while allowing for employer verification via Zero-Knowledge Proofs and smart contracts for information protection. Utilizing time-stamped authentication, applicantsā work history (reference network-based and performance-based information) remains immutable and is securely accessible by potential employers. Based on the validated applicant data and diverse company requirements, the digital resume is generated and customized for each position through smart contracts. For validation, a prototype system is developed with the data from LinkedIn. The results show its feasibility for trusted, fair, secure, and effective construction recruitment.
Purpose Cement manufacturing is a vital yet emission-intensive industry that faces challenges in certifying sustainable production practices, driven by the need for transparency, accountability and regulatory compliance. This paper provides a blockchain-based certification framework to enhance traceability and sustainability in cement production. Design/methodology/approach Leveraging Ethereum smart contracts (SCs) and blockchain technology, our solution ensures decentralized, immutable tracking of emissions data, production processes and compliance through secure interactions among regulators, manufacturers and auditors. The framework facilitates deployment, registration, reporting, auditing and certification. Detailed insights into system architecture, algorithms, SC implementation and validation are provided. Security analysis evaluates access controls, data privacy and vulnerability mitigation, while cost analysis highlights the framework's economic feasibility by examining gas costs for key functions. Findings The blockchain-based framework successfully produced a scalable solution with a modular design to allow for flexible deployment by different regulatory bodies. Transparency was achieved through blockchain events announcement, and accuracy was ensured through periodic auditing rounds. Security analysis results show no serious vulnerabilities. The developed framework proves a cost-effective solution for certifying sustainable production practices in the cement industry, with potential applications across other heavy manufacturing sectors. Research limitations/implications Cement manufacturing is a vital yet emission-intensive industry that faces significant challenges in certifying sustainable production practices, driven by the need for transparency, accountability and regulatory compliance. Practical implications We believe that this paper provides the following practical implications: Innovative Framework: A blockchain-based certification system promoting adherence to sustainable processes in cement manufacturing. SC Implementation: Detailed insights into the system architecture, implementation and validation of algorithms and SCs. Comprehensive Analysis: A thorough security analysis of SC coding and a cost analysis highlighting the economic feasibility of our proposed framework. Social implications The proposed methodology will help all stakeholder involved in the cement production and supply chain have a better understanding and a robust tool to observe and learn about operations, tasks and other activities made through sustainable cement production Originality/value The study contributes a novel blockchain-based method to certify sustainable production in energy-intensive industries, especially cement, offering a valuable tool that ensures transparency and immutability.
Ningshuang Zeng, Xuling Ye, Shiqi Chen, Yan Liu Ā· 5 authors
Although existing models and theories have explained systemic behaviors such as demand amplification and disruption propagation, practical challenges in Modular Construction Supply Chains (MCSC) remain unresolved due to production heterogeneity, geographic dispersion, and conflicting stakeholder interests. In addition, the lack of digital infrastructure and process-level data integration continues to hinder the development of automation and intelligent decision-making. To address these issues, this study develops an MCSC coordination system informed by industrial input. The system features a novel dual-engine architecture that integrates blockchain-enabled smart contracts and Robotic Process Automation (RPA). It also incorporates a practice-oriented approach to MCSC Supply Batch (MSB)-based management, using industrial insights to define the MSB as the fundamental coordination unit in process execution. The automatic triggering mechanism enabled by MSBs and dual-engine enables task-to-task transitions while maintaining traceability and operational clarity across supply chain nodes. A real-world case study validates the effectiveness of the proposed system in enhancing traceability, automation, and stakeholder collaboration within MCSC environments.
The digitalization of the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry has demonstrated the revolutionary potential of integrating blockchain technology with building information modelling (BIM). However, the selection of the most appropriate blockchain solution is a multiple-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem, which is usually influenced by conflicting criteria and deep uncertainty. To overcome this, the present study proposes an extended Fermatean fuzzy weighted aggregated sum product assessment (Extended FF-WASPAS) model. Unlike existing Fermatean fuzzy WASPAS (FF-WASPAS) methods, which are based on a single expert and may be biased, the proposed model incorporates the evaluations of multiple decision makers (DMKs) through a consensus-driven mechanism to ensure unbiased and accurate results. A case study is conducted to evaluate five leading blockchain platforms, Hyperledger Fabric, Polkadot, Tezos, Ethereum, and Algorand, under eight BIM-related criteria. The result indicates that Ethereum is the best blockchain platform to digitalize BIM compared to the other platforms because it is scalable, interoperable, secure, and has a wide range of applications in the real world. Sensitivity analysis over a wide range of parameter values, as well as DMKs assigned with different weight sets, confirmed the stability of the ranking. Furthermore, a quantitative comparative analysis with FF multiple criteria group decision-making (FF-MCGDM) and FF-WASPAS approaches, as well as a qualitative analysis with existing models in various fuzzy environments, confirms the robustness and reliability. Overall, the study provides a strong, interpretable, and consensus-based decision-support framework with high practical value for AEC stakeholders who wish to deploy secure, transparent, and efficient blockchain-enabled BIM solutions.
Slow and disputed progress payments undermine contractor liquidity and project schedules due to manual verification, fragmented data, and limited transparency. This paper presents a prototype system that incrementally integrates digital twin (DT), building information modeling (BIM), and blockchain to automate milestone-based payments. The continuously updated DT is conceptualized as a dynamic oracle, capturing real-time site conditions and comparing them with structured BIM milestones. Verified achievements trigger Ethereum smart contracts referencing Merkle-proofed evidence stored off-chain in InterPlanetary File System (IPFS), with disbursements authorized via Gnosis Safe multi-signature wallets. A prototype on a police station project shortened verification to payment from several days to minutes and eliminated disputes across all milestones. A survey of industry professionals confirmed gains in efficiency, transparency, and trust. The proposed system provides a practical foundation for transparent, automated payments and offers pathways for future adoption such as stablecoin settlement and public sector integration. ā¢ Digital twins resolve blockchain oracle challenges in construction payments. ā¢ BIM-blockchain integration reduces payment verification from days to minutes. ā¢ Smart contracts with multi-signature governance secure transaction integrity. ā¢ Stakeholders confirm enhanced payment speed, transparency, and trust.
Henry Gunawan, Chandra Lukita, Tri Angreni, Muhammad Syarif Hartawan Ā· 7 authors
The persistent financing gap in sustainable infrastructure remains a major barrier to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as traditional financing models often suffer from limited transparency, high entry barriers, and restricted investor access. This study explores the integration of Blockchain technology and tokenization as innovative mechanisms to address these challenges by enhancing transparency, inclusivity, and investment accessibility. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through interviews with financial experts, Blockchain developers, and project managers, alongside surveys involving 100 respondents from the finance and infrastructure sectors across multiple regions. The analysis combined thematic coding using NVivo and statistical assessment of Likert scale responses to evaluate transparency, trust, accessibility, and perceived security risks. Results show that Blockchain significantly improves transparency (mean score 4.2) and trust (4.0), while tokenization facilitates fractional ownership and broadens access to infrastructure investment (4.1). Although moderate concerns about security remain (score 3.3), the strong interest in tokenized investment, especially among developers and investors, reflects a growing readiness for adoption. The novelty of this research lies in its comprehensive examination of the combined application of Blockchain and tokenization for sustainable infrastructure financing a synergy that is rarely addressed in existing literature. By proposing a decentralized, secure, and inclusive financing model, this study offers valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and fintech stakeholders seeking to close the infrastructure financing gap and promote long-term sustainability.
In today's world, the need for smart buildings along with smart interior design is quickly growing, requiring advanced AI-based methods for better area usage, power conservation as well as safety. Usual methods battle in continuing real-time adaptability, with several security concerns, and in sufficient data processing, making them inadequate for multidimensional architectural and interior design systems. For countering these challenges, this research introduces DesignTwin-SDN, a Digital Twin-based AI system in combination with CRL-Net, a Deep Learning (DL)-based clever model fusing CNN, ResNet-50, and LSTM for the creation of more precise spatial-temporal analysis and anomaly detection. Also, for possessing strong security, the system includes Adaptive Flow-Encrypted AES (AFEA), a dual-mode encryption strategy of combining Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) with Flow-Based Dynamic Encryption (FBDE). Furthermore, Starfish-Orangutan Optimization Algorithm (SOOA), which is a combination of the Starfish Optimization Algorithm (SFO) with Orangutan Optimization Algorithm (OOA), is proposed for the selection of the optimal secret key for purposes of maximizing that encryption efficiency. The Zero-Knowledge Proof (ZKP) system further secures authentication by precluding forbidden use in smart spaces. Experimental results show the suggested framework's effectiveness. These results show a 99.05% accuracy and a 98.51% recall, a large increase over the current method. DesignTwin-SDN merges DL and digital twins with SDN-IoT to change smart architecture and interior layout planning into more secure, efficient, and flexible systems with dynamic environments.
Giovanni De Gasperis, Sante Dino Facchini, Asif Saeed
In recent years, numerous regions worldwide have experienced devastating natural disasters, leading to significant structural damage to buildings and loss of human lives. The reconstruction process highlights the need for a reliable method to document and track the maintenance history of buildings. This paper introduces a novel approach for managing and monitoring restoring interventions using a secure and transparent digital framework. We will also present an application aimed at improving building structures with respect to earthquake resistance. The proposed system, referred as the āBuilding Ledger Dossierā, leverages a Digital Twin approach applied to blockchain to establish an immutable record of all structural interventions. The framework models buildings using OpenSees, while all maintenance, repair activities, and documents are registered as Non-Fungible Tokens on a blockchain network, ensuring timestamping, transparency, and accountability. A Decentralized Autonomous Organization oversees identity management and work validation, enhancing security and efficiency in building restoration efforts. This approach provides a scalable and globally applicable solution for improving both ante-disaster monitoring and post-disaster reconstruction, ensuring a comprehensive, verifiable history of structural interventions and fostering trust among stakeholders. The proposed method is also applicable to other types of processes that require the aforementioned properties for document monitoring, such as the life-cycle management of tax credits and operations in the financial or banking sectors.