Tool characterisation framework for parametric building LCA

Abstract

Connecting Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to parametric design has been suggested as a way of facilitating performing environmental assessments in early design stages. However, no overviews of potential approaches and tools are available within recent research. Also, no characterisation frameworks adapted for parametric LCA tools are present. In order to guide the development of workflows for environmental analysis aimed at the early design stage of buildings, the goal of this paper is to provide such a framework, and to demonstrate its use by characterising a number of available LCA plug-ins for the commonly used parametric design framework Grasshopper® (GH). First, a framework for classification and characterisation of tools based on workflow, adaptability, and required user knowledge was developed. Second, a tool inventory was performed, identifying 13 parametric LCA plug-ins for GH. Finally, four of these plug-ins were further investigated using the developed evaluation framework, a user persona approach, and a simplified test case. It was found that the characterisation framework was able to differentiate tools based on the level of LCA expertise integrated in the tools, and the allocation of responsibility for data entry and interpretation. A contrast was found between streamlined tools, and tools which provide more versatility. The characterisation framework, and the resulting overview of approaches can be used to guide the future development of parametric environmental analysis frameworks.

A Parametric BIM Framework to Conceptual Structural Design for Assessing the Embodied Environmental Impact

“…A definition for the environmental characteristics of building materials was completed manually using Excel files; however, several plug-ins are available for Grasshopper, which can be used for parametric LCA. For example, thirteen tools and their qualitative evaluation can be found in the study of Säwén et al [79]. To utilize the substantial analytical capability of the used software environment, the framework can be further developed by integrating optimization tools.…”

“…Similarly, the LCA calculation can also be performed using external software, but there are still many interoperability issues between LCA and BIM software tools [35]. Therefore, Säwén et al [79] also recommend using the same platform for modeling and LCA calculation in the case of large-scale buildings due to the flexibility of the system enabling the quick adoption of the design changes and the possibility of integrating optimization algorithms.…”

Integrating life cycle assessment into the building design process—a review

“…2016) demonstrate how a parametric-LCA workflow can be used throughout the design process to enhance decision making regarding environmental performance. Säwén et al (2022) identify three primary workflows that can be used to incorporate LCA into parametric software (figure 5). These include exporting a BOQ, direct connections with LCA software, and using LCA plug-ins.…”

“…Popular parametric tools include Grasshopper and Revit, which feature a visual interface that can be used to update and modify parameters dynamically. A list of active tools is provided by Säwén et al (2022). Parametric-LCA typically utilises embedded building information and 3D geometry to quickly approximate material quantities required for LCA.…”

Towards Low-Carbon Design in the Building Sector: Investigating method and benchmark for life cycle greenhouse gas emissions from renovation and the integration of digital tools in the design process

“…It also supports building design using parametric LCA, by using e.g. Grasshopper to transfer data between the building model and LCA-tool (Säwén et al, 2022). The parametric approach allows for generating quick design alternatives and using optimization techniques.…”