bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Accessing Hidden Material Flows in the Swiss Built Environment: A Parametric Predictive Model for Building Systems’ Components Reuse Estimation
Authors: Xiong S , Escamilla E Z , Habert G 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The global construction industry plays a pivotal role in resource consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable development practices. Despite this urgency, a major challenge lies in the lack of effective resource utilization models that are consistent with the principles of a circular economy. This gap hampers progress towards sustainable resource management, especially given the trend towards urbanization and growing material needs. To address this challenge, our study introduces a Parametric Prediction Model (PPM) designed to improve resource utilization efficiency with a special focus on building systems materials, which are often neglected in previous studies. The model employs a building-by-building approach to accurately assess material inventories within the building system using local databases, thereby increasing the granularity of system composition data. By utilizing state-of-the-art machine learning algorithms, i.e. linear regression and neural network, the model can handle both categorical and non-categorical data. To illustrate the effectiveness of the model, we show a sample material flow analysis schematic using a typical radiator assessment as an example. The schematic provides predictive and concise information about material flow at aggregated level as well as individual details such as location and timing at local level. The resulting output - a refined and comprehensive database - contributes to more informed decision making in sustainable resource recovery and allocation. In addition, this contribution is aligned with broader goals, including waste minimization and resource efficiency in the built environment.
Exploring key factors to achieve circularity for end-of-life electric vehicle lithium batteries in Australia
Authors: Furtado A , Iyer-Raniga U , Shumon R , Gajanayake A 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Globally, there has been an increase in the production and deployment of lithium batteries (LiB). Specifically, this is due to the recent energy transition and electrification of vehicles. However, as the dependence of electric vehicles (EV) continue to increase, a large volume of LiBs are expected to reach end-of-life (EOL) in the coming years. The circular economy approach has been proposed for EOL EV LiBs to intensify the application of products and minimize waste. Circular business models (CBMs) act as a tool to implement this approach and create value-adding opportunities for businesses. However, research focusing on the development of CBMs from an Australian context is sparse. This research aims to explore the Australian context to achieve circularity for EOL EV LiBs from the perspective of key stakeholders within the value chain and identify key strategic outcomes to minimize the disposal of EV LiBs in landfill. The findings revealed that a lack of government policies is a major barrier to achieve circularity for EOL EV LiBs. Additionally, repurposing of EV LiBs faces a greater challenge than recycling. Hence, we propose adopting a repair + reuse + recycle CBM as a suitable outcome to mitigate the concern of EOL EV LiB waste considering the built environment context. Recommendations include involving stakeholders from the government and academia groups to explore the development of CBMs in Australia.
The Importance of Conscious Decision-making when Securing Carbon Savings Through Building Transformation of Wooden Warehouses Into LKR Innovation House, Denmark
Authors: Hansen Dr. H.T.R. , Feifer L. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
This paper presents an inspirational case-study discussing architectural design and methods used in the light-tech retrofit building and low-carbon building design. The paper furthermore presents the lessons learned from applying LCA calculations to inform the decision-making process. The VELUX Group is transforming former storage warehouses into a new innovation centre in Østbirk, Denmark. The warehouses that were originally constructed as full timber buildings in 1995, are now being transformed from unheated storage spaces into a state of the art innovation centre for VELUX. Sustainable design criteria were carrying features in the design programme, with focus on lifecycle analysis calculations, documentation according to the Voluntary Sustainability Class in the Danish Building regulations, indoor climate simulations with state of the art daylight calculations, as well as performance in the the Active House standard. The winning design transforms a beautiful timber warehouse into a light-tech building design preserving as large quantity of existing materials and elements on site. In conclusion the paper finds that the use of LCA calculations, which have been updated throughout the design and construction processes, has enabled conscious decision-making and significant reduction of the CO2e emissions from material production and building operations. Significant carbon savings have been secured throughout the design and construction processes by raising awareness with all stakeholders about what affects the CO2e emissions from the building design. Examples of conscious decisions made during the process have been: 1) Reuse of existing concrete floor slabs, 2) Reuse of existing timber structures and facades, 3) Reuse of existing roofing membrane, 4) Biobased floor slabs and walls for new structures and walls, 5) On-site re-purposing of materials from facades inside the building and 6) Product selection based on EPD-data, durability, buildability and costs.
On the Reconstruction of Old Buildings in Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
Authors: Chang K F 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The 2022 Q4 data published by the Real Estate Information Platform of the Ministry of the Interior stated that 4.62 million buildings were more than 30 years old, accounting for approximately 51% of the total number of buildings in Taiwan. Since Taiwan is located in a high seismic zone and old buildings have a low seismic resistance. With the emergence of an aging society, where many old buildings are occupied by older people or even older people living alone. Furthermore, old buildings need elevators, making house sales and mortgages difficult. To encourage people to participate in the reconstruction of old buildings, the Ministry of the Interior announced the implementation of the Statute for Reconstruction of Urban Unsafe and Old Buildings on May 10, 2017. Buildings owners who met the Statute for Reconstruction of Urban Unsafe and Old Buildings requirements were expected to value and participate in the program. This study focused on Kaohsiung City and included in-depth interviews with ten people, including experienced architects, banks, willing applicants, and real estate agencies. Using the MAXQDA result analysis, this study discovered that the interviewees paid attention to the reconstruction of unsafe and old buildings 299 times in total: execution of reconstruction of unsafe and old buildings (90 times, 39.30%), policy on the reconstruction of unsafe and old buildings (61 times, 26.64%), incentives for the reconstruction of unsafe and old buildings (47 times, 20.52%), and subsidies for the reconstruction of unsafe and old buildings (31 times, 13.54%). Therefore, when promoting the reconstruction of unsafe and old buildings in the future, the Kaohsiung City government should first address “execution” issues, such as difficulties in executing the reconstruction program and obtaining bank loans; developing a feasible financial plan for the reconstruction of unsafe and old buildings; and assisting willing applicants in successfully securing bank loans.
The use, energy use and renovation of Swedish second homes in winter sport areas
Authors: Mjörnell Kristina , Johansson Dennis 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The growing utilization of second homes has led to extended heating periods and, to some extent, renovations to enhance their standards, resulting in increased energy and resource consumption. This study, conducted in Sweden, investigates user patterns across various seasons, heating systems, and implemented energy renovation measures. Findings reveal that 40% of second homes in winter sport areas are inhabited prolonged periods during the winter, and more than half are used for shorter durations throughout all seasons, surpassing the usage frequency of second homes in general. Additionally, more than half of these second homes are heated to temperatures exceeding 16°C even when unoccupied. The predominant heating method is direct electricity (48%), followed by heat pumps (32%). Renovation activities primarily focus on interior surfaces, kitchens, and bathrooms to elevate standards, with less than 15% implemented energy-efficient measures like heat pump installation, added insulation, new lighting, or control systems. Considering reported user and heating patterns, along with energy renovations undertaken, the study estimates the energy-saving potential associated with various energy renovation strategies. By installing heat pump the energy consumption can be reduced by more than 50% and by lowering the temperature when the house is unoccupied the energy consumption may be reduced by almost 50%.
Data Quality Assessment for Building Performance Analysis with Pilot Case Study
Authors: Leung J , Chiu D , Poon E , Chan F 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the utilization of IoT technologies has greatly simplified the process of acquiring building performance data. However, when it comes to analyzing building performance, especially in Energy Audits and Retro-commissioning (RCx), the issue of poor data quality persists. This poor data quality can result in misinterpretation of the situation, thus impeding the identification of decarbonization opportunities and potentially causing an increase in operating costs. This paper will delve into a comprehensive framework for assessing data quality.
Combining parametric life cycle assessment (LCA) and multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) for developing sustainable residential neighborhoods
Authors: Vollmer M , Theilig K , Hope G , Akca N , Lang W , Albus J 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose: In addressing global challenges like climate change, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss, planners encounter heightened complexity, necessitating environmentally-conscious architectural design. Adopting a proactive stance toward positive impacts rather than mere harm reduction expands the scope of possibilities. Embracing the principles of Positive Buildings and Regenerative Design across six dimensions – Society, Energy, Material, Green, Water, and Mobility – facilitates a holistic approach. Methods: Employing the “Research by Design” methodology, this study develops architectural designs for a German residential project. Assessment involves life cycle analysis and building performance simulations utilizing Rhino Grasshopper with Dragonfly and Colibri plugins. Employing multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM), the utility analysis method concurrently considers eleven criteria to select the optimal design alternative in terms of Energy and Material. Results: The outcomes highlight the effectiveness of utility analysis in supporting MCDM for architectural decision-making, revealing that wood-light structures outperform mineral ones in ecological performance. Furthermore, parametric optimization identifies key parameters influencing energy demand, including energy system, electricity mix, credit from photovoltaic systems, and construction type. Conclusions: Overall, the synergy of “Research by Design” and MCDM enhances the planning process for architecturally sustainable projects, emphasizing the need for continued consideration and integration of additional aspects in the decision-making process for truly holistic outcomes.
System Dynamics Modeling of Life Cycle Carbon Footprints for Building Wall Insulation Materials
Authors: Zong Chujun , Sun Yilun , Lang Werner 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a tool to assess environmental impacts of a product. However, the reliability of LCA should be improved, since the current static methodology does not take temporal variations into account. Accordingly, the dynamic LCA (DLCA) approach is gaining increasing attention. Despite the rapid development of DLCA in the building engineering, investigation on reliable dynamic modeling methods considering the circularity of building materials is still missing. To cope with this problem, we propose a framework of system dynamic modeling of building materials’ global warming potential (GWP) over the complete life cycle of a building. The framework is then applied in the case study of simulating the GWP of eight common building wall insulation materials with two improvement strategies considering a circular material flow. As a result, the established framework is proved feasible and can be implemented in future DLCA modeling. Results also show that considering recycling potential in a circular system results in a reduction of life cycle carbon foot print. Accordingly, the importance of circularity is highlighted.
Navigating the Global Landscape of Embodied Carbon: Challenges, Opportunities, and Best Practices
Authors: Wong Y T 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
As the trend towards decarbonization accelerates and Whole Lifecycle Carbon (WLC) assessment evolves, different benchmarks have been established across the world. While most methodologies adhere to EN 15978, various regional scopes have been defined. In this paper, it summarized the global landscape related to WLC assessment, including guidelines and policies. And it collects various multinational assets companies’ Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) or sustainability reports to examine how they declare their carbon targets and what their approaches are on WLC calculation. The study revealed that most companies did not clearly mention what life cycle stages are included in WLC assessment. Even some companies conducted quite multiple WLC calculations, inconsistencies were found in the reports, for example – variation in life cycle stages, service life, concerned building materials etc. As a result, it is difficult for a company to compare the performance from one asset to another, let alone from outsiders to compare the performance of one company to another. Hence, this paper has developed a systematic approach to illustrate how multinational assets companies could develop a standardizable benchmark based on a variety of WLC landscape across the globe and would like to suggest a common methodology for evaluating their development’s WLC carbon emissions. And it is also noteworthy for investors and practitioners to adopt the same approach to evaluate the companies’ performance on WLC for fair comparisons.
Embodied Carbon Impacts of Building Envelope Systems
Authors: Udisi B , Osman F , Gorgolewski M , Saunders K , Devraj-Kizuk R , Kemp S 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
As buildings become more energy efficient due to stringent building codes, the emphasis on reducing the embodied carbon (EC) in the built environment has become significant. Studies predict that between 2020 and 2050, new buildings will surpass operational emissions with higher embodied emissions in their initial decade and throughout their life cycle. To meet decarbonization targets, reducing EC through low-carbon, high-performance building designs and grid decarbonization is crucial. This research analyzes the embodied carbon intensity of 26 commonly used envelope systems of large buildings in Ontario’s Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) using the attributional life cycle assessment (ALCA) methodology. Results highlight the impact of cladding materials, insulation layers, and backup structures on EC. The study ranks envelope assemblies based on their EC intensity (ECI), providing insights for designers to balance operational and embodied emissions. Noteworthy findings include the relatively high ECI of floor systems compared to exterior wall and roof systems. It also emphasized the challenges in assessing the environmental impacts of wood-based products and the need for uncertainty analysis and transparent reporting. The study contributes to understanding EC in building envelopes, guiding design teams toward low-carbon structures and more informed decision-making. As research progresses, recommendations include consequential analysis, assessing biogenic carbon impacts, and material durability studies for a deeper insight on the environmental impacts of building envelope materials.
Ecohydrological Nature based-Solutions for Sustainable Cities: A Case Study based on Water Security and Modeling
Authors: Gaona Currea J A , Larrinaga López J , León Sarmiento J , Ortega Minakata A T , Gorrotxategi Carbajo J , Soto Trujillo C , Camacho Otero J , Ortiz de Urbina I 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Increasing population and urban sprawl are impacting water resources. This is especially true in big urban areas given their growing water demand. As such, these areas obtain drinking water from rural areas through dams and aqueducts, which decreases sediment retention capacity and results in low water quality. To solve this issue grey infrastructure is insufficient due to its lack of integration with ecosystems and long development times. Ecohydrological Nature-based Solutions (EH-NbS), a multifunctional type of green infrastructure, could increase the ability to regulate the ecological water cycle while providing a background for urban resiliency and sustainability. However, EH-NbS are still hindered by the lack of a robust methodology for site selection and uncertain cost-effectiveness. Therefore, this paper assessed EH-NbS cost-effectiveness through a case study, considering benefits from the reduction of suspended sediments. An innovative methodology based on RIOS and InVEST software was utilized. The results for the baseline scenario confirmed that sediment retention capacity could decrease, and water treatment costs could increase. The alternative including EH-NbS showed an increase in sediment retention capacity, and savings of 0.014% in some maintenance costs. Therefore, EH-NbS could provide sustainable and cost-effective water supply that could boost an urban model transition.
Urban resilience at multi levels: reciprocally from the local level to the sky
Authors: Jonas A , Mueller A 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Climate change, growing social inequalities as well as hazards of ecological and economic origin will dominate the life of all of us – wherever we live. The global community demands in this context that ‘no one shall be left behind’. The factors of influence mentioned do not stop at administrative borders though. They interact with all levels of governance and are, in fact, relevant not only for cities and communities but also for regions, nations and supranations. Taking this relation as given would mean pursuing a multi-level approach towards urban resilience (and sustainability). The paper discusses a respective approach, which some countries have chosen in cooperation with their cities and communities to better understand the requirements for a resilient urban future and thus develop and implement adequate tools as well as coordinate and continuously enhance respective processes. Tools in that respect would refer to legislation and funding programmes in the same way as processes could address the notion of cooperation and coproduction. Urban pilot projects, like the ones on post-COVID-19-Pandemic conditions, might serve as reference points for addressing multi-level actions in practice by both, a national and a local level, and thus supporting cities and communities in strengthening their resilience against multiple crises.
A conceptual framework for understanding community resilience to flooding
Authors: Nsobya C , Moncaster A , Potter K , Mabon L , Ramsay J 
Published: July 2024

AbstractFlooding, an already prevalent global hazard, is predicted to worsen in frequency and intensity. Flood Risk Governance has evolved from exclusively combating flooding to now also coexisting with it, aiming to enhance resilience comprehensively and over the long term. A narrative literature review presents diverse conceptualisations of resilience to flooding, highlighting ongoing debates about whether resilience is an outcome or process. This paper contends that resilience can and should encompass both the process and outcome-based components. Critically reviewing existing conceptualisations, this paper proposes a holistic framework for understanding community resilience. The framework comprises three components: the capacity to resist, the capacity to respond and recover, and the capacity to adapt. Six specific and potentially overlapping, capacities are identified as Social, Physical, Human, Economic, Institutional, and Natural. The paper also discusses the importance of qualitative research in providing more nuance when assessing resilience. The paper clarifies the complexity of resilience in the face of evolving flood risks, proposing an integrated framework that spans capacities, ongoing processes, and ultimate outcomes. This framework will provide the foundation for understanding and analysing community resilience to groundwater flooding in Buckinghamshire, UK.
Food systems and community resilience: a case study of food deserts and centrality of Petrópolis (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
Authors: Alves da Rocha Emanuela , Luís Paiva André , Drach Patricia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Urban and territorial planning play a crucial role in the performance and sustainability of agri-food systems, emphasizing local food production and consumption. This article, based on previous studies of Petrópolis, aims to reevaluate its urban centers, focusing on food and landscape aspects. Through a review of literature on healthy urbanism and agri-food systems, the study incorporates urban cartography developed in Quantum-GIS software, integrating Petrópolis’ territorial and landscape features with comfortable walking and cycling distance. The rural-to-urban transect analysis reveals that rural spaces could be termed as the “periphery of the periphery.” To address decentralization and reduce segregation, comfortable walking and cycling radii—0.75 km in 15 minutes and 3.75 km in 15 minutes, respectively—suggest potential centralities. Implementing measures like expanding street markets and establishing individual points for local farmers to supply natural food can further support decentralization, benefiting public health and food security in vulnerable areas. This approach acknowledges the interdependence between urban and rural areas.