Integrating IoT and BIM for tracking and visualising embodied carbon of prefabricated buildings

The building sector significantly contributes to embodied carbon (EC) emissions. Usually, a pre- or postconstruction assessment is conducted for analysing prefabricated buildings' EC. However, actual EC may differ from estimated values, and a lack of real-time EC monitoring method makes it difficult to determine the causes and take prompt actions if an unexpected deviation is found after construction. Therefore, this paper develops an EC monitoring system for tracking and visualising prefabricated buildings' EC at multiple spatiotemporal levels by integrating the Internet of Things (IoT) and Building Information Modelling (BIM). Infrastructure, computing, and application layers were designed to form the system. The developed system proved effective and efficient in formulating prompt and reasonable carbon control measures and conducting comprehensive carbon analysis using a real-life prefabricated building in Hong Kong. Feedback provided by the system indicates that construction material is the most significant carbon source, whereas EC generated from transportation and electricity consumption of equipment should not be underestimated. The system advances knowledge in achieving carbon traceability and visibility and depicts a comprehensive carbon distribution map, which should help project managers and government authorities with effective carbon strategies.

Automated summary

This paper develops an EC monitoring system that integrates IoT and BIM to track and visualize the embodied carbon emissions of prefabricated buildings at multiple spatiotemporal levels. The system's effectiveness and efficiency are demonstrated through its application to a real-life prefabricated building in Hong Kong, allowing for the formulation of prompt and reasonable carbon control measures as well as comprehensive carbon analysis. The feedback provided by the system highlights the significance of construction materials as the primary carbon source, while emphasizing the importance of not underestimating the carbon emissions from transportation and equipment electricity consumption. The system advances research on carbon traceability and visibility, providing a comprehensive carbon distribution map that can aid project managers and government authorities in developing effective carbon strategies.