Integrating bio-based materials into the eco-design tools for buildings and neighbourhoods

Context and challenges

Bio-based materials are increasingly used in construction, but their real environmental benefits compared with conventional materials remain poorly quantified. Current LCA methods do not sufficiently take into account the timing of emissions, the temporary storage of carbon, or the trade-offs between wood as a material and wood as energy. This research seeks to address these limitations in order to more accurately assess the contribution of bio-based materials to reducing a building’s environmental footprint.

Objectives and method

The objective of this research is to improve the way bio-based materials are taken into account in the eco-design of buildings and neighbourhoods. The approach combines dynamic energy simulation, incorporating prospective climate scenarios, and prospective life-cycle assessment in order to evaluate their effects on comfort, the storage and release of carbon, and resource management. The methodological approaches will be compared and applied to a representative case study, in order to propose developments that can be integrated into a professional building-LCA tool.