The Evolution of Multi-Family Housing Development Standards in the Climate Crisis: A Comparative Analysis of Selected Issues

Abstract

Contemporary problems related to the consequences of climate change and exposure to changing investment and implementation conditions are prompting the development of programmes adapting to climate change. Issues of adaptation and actions in relation to climate change are being discussed in the architectural, urban planning, and governmental communities. Models are being developed for shaping the functional and spatial structure, buildings and infrastructure in the city in relation to the projected climate change. Multi-criteria and interdisciplinary research is being carried out and solutions are being implemented for retaining water, minimising the heat island effect, reducing emissions and environmental impact by analysing the carbon footprint and introducing circular economy principles. The research is focused on the analysis of design and implementation conditions for multi-family housing projects in Poland, and the development of design guidelines enabling adaptation and mitigation of the negative effects of climate change, including heat island effects, smog, overheating, drought, and flooding in housing. Conclusions from the overview of the indicated documents and legal provisions for the implementation of sustainable development principles and adaptation to climate change in the investments under preparation (urban and architectural projects) enable the forecasting of development directions and ideological assumptions for shaping urbanised areas, providing the basis for shaping the resilience of the functional and spatial structure and the natural system in urban areas subject to transformation. Issues of implementing pro-environmental technologies and developing new urban planning standards disseminate the solutions of compact cities in which the development of multifunctional building complexes with public spaces equipped with greenery linked to the buildings are realised.

Sustainable Architecture: Innovations and Perspectives for Multifamily Housing in Timber-Based Structures

“…However, concrete in hybrid construction allows the requirements for fire and flood protection to be met, which is why it is often used on the ground floor of a building. In addition, hybrid systems allow buildings to be constructed in areas with difficult ground conditions, are lightweight due to the use of wood, and can be used to support a wide range of materials [11].…”

External Wall Systems in Passive House Standard: Material, Thermal and Environmental LCA Analysis

“…These challenges are linked to the meeting of a wide range of societal needs, including the three traditional dimensions of a sustainable energy system: environmental balance, energy security, and economic stability [3]. The problems of energy security for the construction sector are exacerbated by the increasingly visible effects of climate change, which has a significant impact on this sector [4,5]. In 2022, the construction sector will account for 34% of total global energy demand, resulting from both operational emissions from the use of building services and emissions associated with the production of building materials.…”

Life Cycle Assessment and Building Information Modeling Integrated Approach: Carbon Footprint of Masonry and Timber-Frame Constructions in Single-Family Houses

“…Finally, there is an economic dimension to analysing the carbon footprint of the design and construction of residential buildings [10,11]. A growing number of investors and developers are recognising that buildings with a low carbon footprint can be a source of long-term financial savings through reduced operating costs and energy consumption [12].…”