The integration of sustainable practices and digital technologies in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry is critical to achieving carbon-neutral infrastructure. This presentation will explore the intersection of lifecycle assessment (LCA) methodologies and digital innovations, focusing on how these advancements can drive sustainable material selection in design and construction. A key area of discussion will be the role of digital material passports, which provide detailed information about the materials' lifecycle, from sourcing to disposal. These passports are essential for enabling informed decision-making, yet their adoption faces several challenges, including data standardisation and integration within existing Building Information Modelling (BIM) frameworks.
Emerging trends in the use of digital tools for sustainability analysis, particularly around embodied carbon, will be examined. The presentation will highlight how existing tools, as well as novel tools and methods being developed at Aurecon, are reshaping our approach to LCA by unified report mechanisms, automating data capture and analysis, and promoting greater transparency and accountability. The potential of BIM as a platform for embedding sustainability metrics and facilitating real-time assessments will be discussed, showcasing experience on Aurecon projects as case studies. These examples will illustrate practical applications and the tangible benefits of integrating sustainability analyses into the design and construction phases.
Furthermore, the presentation will address the barriers to the widespread adoption of these technologies, including technical, organisational, and regulatory challenges. The discussion will cover the innovation potential in overcoming these barriers, offering insights into future directions for research and industry practice. By providing a high-level overview of the current state and future potential of digitisation in sustainable infrastructure, this presentation aims to spark thought-provoking discussions on how the AEC industry can contribute to a more sustainable future.