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

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 assessment (LCA) in digital building design processes enables early evaluation of embodied impacts. This connection offers opportunities to generate predictive parameters to efficiently use environmental optimization potentials. The aim of this study was 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 161 practitioners is conducted, analysing five different user profiles. 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 user profiles. 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 user profiles. 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.