Abstract The building industry is responsible for considerable environmental impacts due to its consumption of resources and energy, and the production of wastes. Circular Economy (CE), a new paradigm can significantly improve the sustainability of this sector. This paper performs a quantitative scientific evolution analysis of the application of CE in the building sector to detect new trends and highlight the evolvement of this research topic. Around 7000 documents published 2005 to 2020 at Web of Science and Scopus were collected and analyzed. The bibliometric indicators, network citation, and multivariate statistical analysis were obtained using Bibliometrix R-package and VOSviewer. The co-occurrence analysis showed five keyword-clusters, in which the three main ones are: (i) energy and energy efficiency in buildings; (ii) recycling, waste management and alternative construction materials; (iii) sustainable development. The analysis showed that researchers pay close attention to “sustainability”, “energy efficiency”, “life cycle assessment”, “renewable energy”, and “recycling” in the past five years. This paper highlights that (i) the development and use of alternative construction materials; (ii) the development of circular business models; (iii) smart cities, Industry 4.0 and their relations with CE, are the current research hotspots that may be considered as potential future research topics.
The building sector is significantly contributing to climate change, pollution, and energy crises, thus requiring a rapid shift to more sustainable construction practices. Here, we review the emerging practices of integrating renewable energies in the construction sector, with a focus on energy types, policies, innovations, and perspectives. The energy sources include solar, wind, geothermal, and biomass fuels. Case studies in Seattle, USA, and Manama, Bahrain, are presented. Perspectives comprise self-sufficiency, microgrids, carbon neutrality, intelligent buildings, cost reduction, energy storage, policy support, and market recognition. Incorporating wind energy into buildings can fulfill about 15% of a building's energy requirements, while solar energy integration can elevate the renewable contribution to 83%. Financial incentives, such as a 30% subsidy for the adoption of renewable technologies, augment the appeal of these innovations.
Abstract The vast majority of scientists and policy makers agree that environmental impacts of buildings need to be reduced significantly, and that Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a methodology well suited to support this. The importance of evaluating potential improvements to the environmental life cycle performance of buildings in early design stages is widely acknowledged; the wide application of LCA during design however, is restrained by the great uncertainty in design and material decisions at this stage. To support decision making in the early design stage, we propose an approach using Building Information Modeling (BIM) to assess a wide range of construction options and their embodied environmental impact. We use a conceptual BIM model to evaluate a variety of material compositions for different building elements and the potential contribution of elements to the total embodied impact of the building design. The BIM-integrated approach enables identification of design specific hotspots which can be visualized on the building model for communication of LCA results and visual design guidance.
The accelerating development of offshore wind energy in the Great Lakes region necessitates cost-effective solutions for auxiliary infrastructure, such as meteorological masts. While monopile foundations are well-established for turbine generators, their high flexural rigidity and capital cost are often disproportionate for non-generating platforms. This study presents a parametric optimization of a guyed tower foundation situated in the nearshore limestone shelf of Lake Huron (Point Clark), specifically designed to balance strict signal serviceability with foundation economy. Using a non-linear static solver with Ernst equivalent cable moduli, a full factorial sweep of 48 design configurations was conducted under site-specific hydrodynamic loads (1300 kN Average/3500 kN Storm). The results demonstrate that while all configurations satisfied the 0.004 rad rotation limit mandated by TIA-222-H, significant non-linear trade-offs exist between structural stiffness and foundation demand. Specifically, a “cost of rigidity” was identified, where increasing cable pretension to 800 kN resulted in foundation overturning moments exceeding 9.6 × 10<sup>4</sup> kN·m—a threefold increase compared to lower-pretension alternatives. To resolve this trade-off, a formal multi-objective scoring function was applied to rank designs based on rotation, moment, and displacement. The analysis identifies a “balanced” configuration comprising three guys with high-stiffness anchors (5 × 10<sup>7</sup> N/m) and moderate pretension (300–500 kN) as the optimal design. This configuration leverages the competent bedrock to minimize cable tension requirements, offering a resilient and economically efficient solution for Great Lakes offshore monitoring.
This study proposes a systematic policy framework that leverages special tax measures to steer stakeholder behavior toward urban cultural heritage conservation. Integrating comparative policy analysis, microeconomic modeling, systematic policy framework construction and case studies from China, we design a synergistic system of tax incentives and disincentives across income, consumption, and property taxes. The framework is contextualized within China’s forthcoming Cultural Heritage Conservation Law and demonstrates how fiscal instruments can align individual economic rationality with collective conservation goals. A three-stage decision model – grounded in Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) – is introduced to assess the suitability, necessity, and balancing of tax interventions. Based on the analysis of secondary sources and policy documents, empirical case studies in Suzhou and Tianshui are used to illustrate the framework’s efficacy and limitations. The findings offer a transferable model for sustainable urban governance, with relevance for rapidly urbanizing regions globally.
Tunneling in fractured zones significantly affects surface and building deformation. This paper investigates the deformation of overlying buildings and the surrounding ground induced by multi-line TBM tunneling in fractured zones of the Qingdao Metro, combining a 3D physical model test, numerical simulations, and field monitoring to analyze the evolution of settlement and structural responses. The results show that settlement induced by TBM excavation peaks at the center and diminishes laterally, with amplified differential settlement and building torsion near fractured zones. Comparative analyses of reinforcement strategies indicate that crown grouting is the most effective in reducing deformation. Sensitivity analysis further indicates that tunnel depth, grouting pressure, and building–tunnel relative position are the dominant factors influencing building settlement. The findings provide practical guidance for similar projects in complex geological conditions and contribute to deformation control in underground works.
Maher Abuhussain, Ali Hussain Alhamami, Khaled Almazam
et al.
This study introduces a comprehensive framework combining building information modeling (BIM), project management body of knowledge (PMBOK), and machine learning (ML) to optimize energy efficiency and reduce environmental impacts in Riyadh’s construction sector. The suggested methodology utilizes BIM for dynamic energy simulations and design visualization, PMBOK for integrating sustainability into project-management processes, and ML for predictive modeling and real-time energy optimization. Implementing an integrated model that incorporates building-management strategies and machine learning for both commercial and residential structures can offer stakeholders a thorough solution for forecasting energy performance and environmental impact. This is particularly essential in arid climates owing to specific conditions and environmental limitations. Using a simulation-based methodology, the framework was evaluated based on two representative case studies: (i) a commercial complex and (ii) a residential building. The neural network (NN), reinforcement learning (RL), and decision tree (DT) were implemented to assess performance in energy prediction and optimization. Results demonstrated notable seasonal energy savings, particularly in spring (15% reduction for commercial buildings) and fall (13% reduction for residential buildings), driven by optimized heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, insulation strategies, and window configurations. ML models successfully predicted energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, enabling targeted mitigation strategies. GHG emissions were reduced by up to 25% in commercial and 20% in residential settings. Among the models, NN achieved the highest predictive accuracy (R<sup>2</sup> = 0.95), while RL proved effective in adaptive operational control. This study highlights the synergistic potential of BIM, PMBOK, and ML in advancing green project management and sustainable construction.
This study presents a comprehensive review of building materials, construction methods, and building regulations on the U.K. mainland. This provides valuable insights into the historical progression and transformation of the construction industry through a comprehensive analysis of both traditional and modern building construction materials and methods and categorising their evolutionary trajectory. Current building regulations in England, Wales, and Scotland are compared, highlighting differences in fire safety, noise safety, energy conservation, and sustainability. For example, fire safety regulations are analysed in detail, including fire resistance duration, wall cladding combustibility, and limitations on unprotected areas. Advances in knowledge and technology have led to increasingly sophisticated and energy-dependent methods, materials, and regulations. This study showcases the vast array of building construction materials spanning centuries, each possessing unique properties and performances. The selected methods and materials represent those currently employed or widely utilised in the U.K. construction industry, affirming their relevance and applicability in modern construction practices. Limitations in construction practices primarily stem from a lack of knowledge and tools rather than material scarcity. Enhancing knowledge and access to advanced tools is crucial to overcoming these limitations and driving advancements in the field. This study provides insights into the evolution of building materials, construction methods, and building regulations that can inform future developments in sustainable building practices. The findings have significant implications for policymakers, building designers, and constructors, particularly in terms of adopting sustainable materials and construction methods that comply with building regulations while reducing the environmental impact of the built environment.
Marcos G. Alberti, Alejandro Enfedaque, Duarte M. V. Faria
et al.
Material optimization was one of the challenges for achieving cost-competitive solutions when concrete was introduced in construction, leading to new structural shapes for both civil works and buildings. As concrete construction became dominant, saving material was given less significance, and the selection of the structural typology was mostly influenced by construction or architectural considerations. Simple and non-time-consuming methods for building thus arose as the dominant criteria for design, and this led to the construction of less efficient structures. Currently, the awareness of the environmental footprint in concrete construction has brought the focus again to the topic of structural efficiency and material optimization. In addition, knowledge of material technology is pushing the use of cements and binders with lower environmental impact. Within this framework, Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (FRC) has been identified as a promising evolution of ordinary concrete construction. In this paper, a discussion is presented on the structural properties required for efficient design, focusing on the toughness and deformation capacity of the material. By means of several examples, the benefits and potential application of limit analysis to design at the Ultimate Limit State with FRC are shown. On this basis, the environmental impact of a tailored mix design and structural typology is investigated for the case of slabs in buildings, showing the significant impact that might be expected (potentially reducing CO<sub>2</sub>-eq emissions to half or even less in slabs when compared to ordinary solutions).
The objective of this study is to determine how to increase green space that can overlap with areas that are primarily used for transport in commercial areas and waterfront routes in communities in Thailand, where transportation is limited, in order to provide urban populations an opportunity to access green space in various forms. In this study, the following was found: (1) Commercial routes should be considered. Specifically, green spaces should be created in various forms by considering the sizes of footpaths as well as restrictions on planting; the plants should be native plants because they are easy to care for and help convey the boundaries of an area. A “landmark” that represents the identity of a community should be used to create a meeting point for people entering the commercial area, and designers should use the principles of universal design to make all groups of people feel confident and safe when accessing the area. Finally, vacant or abandoned areas between buildings may also be used. (2) Waterside travel routes should also be considered. Green spaces should be distributed into points, or some routes should be made wider to accommodate various activities; areas along canals or river banks or degraded waterways should be developed or improved to create a recreational area designed with the community’s unique identity in mind, which may develop into a destination for tourists. Importantly, agencies who are responsible for working with the people in the community need to continuously care for these green spaces to enhance sustainability.
As a result of the growth of economic, demographic and building activities in Iraq, that necessitates carrying out geotechnical investigations for the dune sand to study behavior of footings resting on these soils. To determine these properties and to assess the suitability of these materials for resting shallow foundation on it, an extensive laboratory testing program was carried out. Chemical tests were carried out to evaluate any possible effects of the mineralogical composition of the soil on behavior of foundation rested on dune sands.
Collapse tests were also conducted to trace any collapse potential. Loading tests were carried out for optimum water content and different shapes of footing. Loading test recommends manufacturing of steel box and footing models with different shapes and dimensions. The results indicated that, Affek dune sand is predominantly fine sand with non-plastic fines.
Because the content of sulphate (as SO3) is only 0.05%, and the alkalinity of dune sand, which reduces the corrosion potential, ordinary Portland cement can be used in concrete foundation construction in/on dune sands. The results of collapsing tests showed that Affek dune sand exhibit a slight to moderate potential depending on stress level. Due to Soaking by water, the reduction in bearing capacity of optimum state was about 45%. The bearing capacity of square footing was greater than those of the circular and rectangular footings.
Electronic communications play an important role in assisting construction project managers. Few researchers have addressed the problem of communication technology adoption in the construction industry. This paper explores the quality of communication at construction sites in Iran and evaluates the efficiency of electronic devices. To investigate the quality of communications in construction sites, a field study is conducted on a sample of construction projects in Hamadan province, Iran. In this field study, engineers from the Building Engineering Organization of Hamadan Province are interviewed. Cohen's kappa coefficient is used to determine the percentage of agreement among the research participants. A case study was considered to evaluate the performance of automatic electronic communications in a construction site. The site is related to flour hives located in the west of Hamadan city. Five devices are used including a virtual reality building information model, a smartphone camera, an electronic construction kiosk, a GPS smartphone, and quick response tags. A video is used by the aid of the electronic construction kiosk that shows the risks and injuries for people without helmets. Analytical hierarchy process is employed to assess the relative importance of various electronic hardware used in this study. The results indicate that most communications in construction sites are traditional (paper-based); slow and ineffective communication, misunderstanding of requirements and agendas, and inadequate communication between personnel are the most important communication problems of construction sites. The results also indicate that prioritizing the importance of electronic communication tools is the electronic kiosk, quick response tags, smartphone camera, and GPS smartphone, respectively. In addition, the results demonstrate the benefit of electronic communications on employee training, project safety, project time, and project cost. Limited research has been conducted on the performance of electronic communications in construction projects. This paper is of interest to those who work in the field of construction project automation.
In order to support the green and low-carbon transformation of China’s construction industry and accomplish the dual carbon objective, it is vital to accelerate green technology innovation. Therefore, this paper takes the Chengdu–Chongqing urban agglomeration of China as the study area, using the super-efficiency slacks-based measure (SBM)model and the gravity model to assess the efficiency of green technology innovation in the construction industry, utilizing geographical detectors to investigate the drivers of green technology innovation in the construction industry further. Additionally, we consider each influencing factor’s level of impact on the efficiency of green technology innovation in the construction sector both under the single factor and double factor scenarios. The findings indicate that there is a considerable difference in the efficiency of green technology innovation in the Chengdu–Chongqing metropolitan agglomeration’s construction industry, and the trend is upward. In addition, the research area exhibited spatially heterogeneous characteristics in terms of the efficiency of green technology innovation in the construction industry, and the spatial spillover effect was significantly limited by distance. Further research revealed that environmental legislation, economic development, public environmental concern, urbanization level, and foreign direct investment were the primary driving factors of green technology innovation efficiency in the construction sector, and industrial size was the potential driving factor. The spatial and temporal differentiation of the green technology innovation efficiency in the construction industry was also more affected by the interaction between the dominating factor and the prospective factor than by either factor acting alone. The research’s findings are useful in advancing the green and low-carbon transformation of the construction sector in the Chengdu–Chongqing metropolitan agglomeration by offering theoretical support and decision-making reference.
Construction customers want more complex facilities delivered faster and at a lower cost. Transaction costs account for a significant proportion of each new or refurbished facility (a 2017 report from the Infrastructure Client Group in the UK suggests as high as 50%), yet they contribute no value to the customer. Blockchain is being suggested as a way to reduce transaction costs by eliminating the need for intermediaries to build trust as a prerequisite for successfully executed agreements. This study first describes the thinking that underpins blockchain technology, outlining how it works, and the potential limitations of the technology. Second, using a case study, reviews the potential cost savings from the use of blockchain for a real estate company. The results reveal a potential cost savings from blockchain deployment at 8.3% of the total cost of residential construction, with a standard deviation of 1.26%. Third, we explore the implications, risks and applications of blockchain technology for improving flow in the end-to-end design and construction process and we identify opportunities for future research on blockchain applications in construction.