Aligning net zero carbon-built environments with sustainable development goals: Topic modelling approach to integrating technologies and policies

Abstract

Achieving net-zero carbon in the built environment is critical to global climate goals, yet aligning sector-specific strategies with broader sustainability frameworks remains underexplored. This study integrates machine learning based BERTopic modelling, PRISMA-guided systematic review, and global case studies to analyse how energy optimization, sustainable technologies, and policy frameworks align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) sub-targets. The five critical themes identified—energy optimization, renewable energy systems, building-integrated photovoltaics and energy storage, technological and policy strategies, and methods for achieving net-zero carbon in the built environment—demonstrate the breadth of opportunities for sustainable transitions. By using BERTopic modelling to map 3,849 publications, the study highlights alignment with SDG sub targets related to clean energy (SDG 7), sustainable urban development (SDG 11), and climate action (SDG 13), offering practical guidance for policymakers and robust tools to practitioners to accelerate the net-zero transition. The findings emphasize the critical role of the built environment’s and the urgency of integrating climate measures into governance, while scaling innovations to mitigate climate change impacts through advanced technologies, renewable energy integration, retrofitting, and strengthened policy frameworks. By addressing economic and technical barriers, improving energy storage solutions, and enhancing financial incentives, this research advances sustainable practices and supports the global transition toward net-zero carbon buildings.