Building information modelling (BIM) can help low-carbon building design by supporting the comparison of alternative design choices in the initial phases of design by different design disciplines and thus finding optimal solutions. Also, the growing regulation of various Nordic countries regarding the low-carbon nature of construction projects sets requirements for evaluating the carbon footprint. Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden require it during the as-built phase. Estonia is planning to require it during the building permit phase, and Iceland plans to require it twice during the building project.
The BIM4LCA project produced several results, which are here shortly summarised:
- a generic description of the BIM to LCA process supporting the calculation and reporting of normative LCA in building construction projects
- generic guidelines for reliable BIM-based material inventory (bill of materials): specifications for information needed for modelled building components, data transfer from BIM tools to LCA tools, and iterative design and analysis workflow between BIM and LCA tools
- a pathway towards automated BIM-based LCA for instant feedback and low-carbon design solutions
- two example buildings with BIM models for practitioners to learn BIM-based building LCA
- educational videos on BIM-based LCA
The BIM4LCA project highlights the need for Nordic authorities to set BIM requirements for climate declaration and support information harmonisation in the construction sector. The project emphasizes the importance of integrating BIM and LCA processes to achieve sustainable construction goals.
Read the report BIM for Building LCA_Enhancing Nordic Sustainable Construction Through Digitalisation here