A sustainable BIM approach for Lifecycle Management

Project description

The proposed project is centred on advancing sustainable infrastructure development through the integration of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). The primary aim is to foster a paradigm shift in the industry, moving beyond conventional approaches to incorporate robust environmental considerations early in the design and construction phases.

The overarching goal is to contribute to the industry’s commitment to achieving ‘Net Zero’ emissions by 2050. This involves not merely complying with environmental standards but proactively shaping projects that align with global sustainability objectives. The project aims to establish a comprehensive framework for assessing sustainability metrics in the initial design stages, streamlining decision-making processes and offering cost-effective advantages.

Methodologically, the project will leverage the power of BIM, a cutting-edge technology enabling the creation of digital prototypes, to model the physical and functional aspects of infrastructure projects. Concurrently, Life Cycle Assessment will be employed to systematically evaluate the environmental impacts associated with the entire life cycle of these projects. The synergy between BIM and LCA will enable stakeholders to make well-informed decisions that optimize functionality while minimizing adverse environmental effects.

The proposed project recognizes that sustainability is no longer a secondary consideration but a critical investment area. It seeks to redefine project management by incorporating innovative methodologies that promote efficiency, innovation, and ecological responsibility. Through a detailed examination of both implicit and explicit environmental factors throughout the infrastructure life cycle, the project aims to identify opportunities for sustainability and facilitate the reduction of resource consumption and environmental risks.

Ultimately, the proposed project strives to contribute to a more resilient and eco-friendly built environment, aligning with global sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing early-stage sustainability assessments, fostering innovation, and encouraging the reuse/recycling of materials, the project aims to be a catalyst for positive change in the construction industry.

Outcomes

The PhD project is anticipated to yield several significant outcomes that contribute to the field of sustainable infrastructure development. The key deliverables include:

1. Framework for Early Sustainability Assessment: Develop a comprehensive framework integrating Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to facilitate early-stage sustainability assessments in infrastructure projects.

2. Optimized Decision-Making Processes: Provide insights into how the integration of BIM and LCA can optimize decision-making processes in infrastructure development. This includes identifying critical points for sustainable interventions, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing overall project efficiency.

3. Guidelines for Sustainable Infrastructure Design: Formulate guidelines and recommendations for incorporating sustainability considerations into the design phase of infrastructure projects. This will encompass methodologies for evaluating and selecting environmentally conscious design alternatives.

4. Case Studies and Best Practices: Present case studies illustrating the successful implementation of BIM and LCA in sustainable infrastructure projects. Identify best practices derived from these cases, offering practical insights for industry adoption.

5. Contribution to Global Sustainability Goals: Align the project outcomes with broader global sustainability initiatives, particularly those outlined in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Showcase how the integration of BIM and LCA can actively contribute to achieving ‘Net Zero’ emissions by 2050 and address environmental challenges.

These expected outcomes collectively aim to advance the understanding and implementation of sustainable practices in infrastructure development, positioning the research as a valuable resource for both academia and industry professionals.

Essential capabilities

1. Knowledge of Building Information Modelling (BIM): A solid understanding of BIM methodologies, tools, and applications is essential. The student should be found in creating and managing digital models for infrastructure projects using BIM software. 2. Knowledge of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA): Found understadning in the principles and methodologies of Life Cycle Assessment, with the ability to evaluate and interpret environmental impacts across the entire life cycle of infrastructure projects.

Desireable capabilities

1. Interdisciplinary Collaboration Skills: The ability to collaborate effectively with professionals from diverse fields, such as architecture, engineering, and environmental science, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to sustainable infrastructure development. 2. Data Analysis and Visualization: Good knowladge in data analysis tools and visualization techniques to interpret and present complex data sets derived from BIM and LCA assessments. Skills in using relevant software for data analysis and visualization are highly desirable. These capabilities ensure that the student possesses a strong foundation in the core technologies and methodologies of the project. Additionally, the ability to collaborate across disciplines and effectively communicate findings through data analysis and visualization further enriches the student’s qualifications for successful project engagement.

Expected qualifications (Course/Degrees etc.)

Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a Related Field, or Master’s Degree (or Enrollment in a Master’s Program), any type of coursework in BIM, LCA and Environmental Engineering or Sustainability