Multi-information integration-based life cycle analysis of greenhouse gas emissions for prefabricated construction: A case study of Shenzhen

Abstract

Prefabricated buildings have gained significant attention in the global construction sector due to their potential to reduce construction time, improve process efficiency, save resources, and mitigate pollution. It is crucial to quantify the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with prefabrication technologies for sustainable development. However, there is a lack of comprehensive research utilizing advanced technological tools to examine and visualize GHG emissions in prefabrication. To address this gap, this study employed a multi-information method that combines Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Geographic Information System (GIS) with a life cycle assessment (LCA) approach to analyze and calculate the spatial distribution of GHG emissions from prefabricated components and buildings during the production, transportation, and construction stages in China. The results indicate the following: (1) GHG emissions per cubic meter for the prefabricated exterior wall, balcony, and stair are 1080.77 kgCO2eq/m3, 867.84 kgCO2eq/m3, and 1902.63 kgCO2eq/m3, respectively, with an overall average of 1138.58 kgCO2eq/m3 for prefabricated components. (2) The production phase is responsible for the largest share of GHG emissions, accounting for 96.11%, while the transportation and construction phases contribute 3.30% and 0.59% of the total emissions, respectively. (3) The selection of prefabricated construction can lead to a 31.62% reduction in total GHG emissions per square meter, with emissions of 269.16 kgCO2eq/m2, compared to traditional construction with emissions of 393.63 kgCO2eq/m2. The study contributes to the knowledge body by providing a systematic method for calculating GHG emissions and offering traceability and visibility of GHG emissions for prefabricated components and prefabricated buildings. These findings can serve as practical references for future research to achieve the construction industry's green and low-carbon goals.