Optimizing building solutions in a changing climate: parameter-based analysis of embodied and operational environmental impacts

Buildings contribute significantly to global energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. Climate change affects building performance, particularly heating and cooling demands. While current policies focus on improving energy performance and reducing operational emissions, the embodied emissions from building materials become more significant in energy-efficient buildings. This study aims to investigate optimal building solutions considering both operational and embodied environmental impact in the context of climate change in the Belgian context. The research questions address the influence of building characteristics on environmental impact and the contribution of embodied and operational emissions to optimal design. The study employs parametric life cycle assessment and dynamic building energy simulation to explore design strategies for a medium-sized office building. The results reveal the trade-offs between operational and embodied impacts. Buildings with better energy performance exhibit higher embodied emissions, highlighting the importance of considering both aspects. Pareto optimal buildings are identified, minimizing total life cycle environmental cost and operational environmental cost. Insulation levels, solar shading, and orientation are key factors in achieving optimal design. HVAC systems and electricity mixes also significantly influence optimal solutions. Lightweight and heavyweight buildings have distinct characteristics affecting heating and cooling demands. Variations in electricity mixes impact energy consumption and environmental costs of different HVAC system scenarios. The study emphasizes the need for a holistic life cycle approach and considering both operational and embodied impacts in building design. It underscores the importance of optimizing building characteristics while addressing climate change challenges. Further research should explore additional factors such as night cooling, HVAC system performance under climate change, and the inclusion of financial costs and visual comfort in the analysis.