In the framework of the Erasmus + project BIM-LCAtwo tools have been developed that are designed to facilitate the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in the construction sector: an interactive web application and an excel tool.
The Life Cycle Analysis is a key methodology for assessing the environmental impact of materials and processes used in construction, from the extraction of raw materials to the end of the building's useful life. With these tools, we take a further step towards sustainability, promoting data-driven construction decisions.
The excel tool
The excel tool is designed for professionals and students interested in performing LCA calculations of buildings. This solution allows:
- Enter project-specific data, such as materials, types of products or areas and volumes of construction elements.
- Obtain results on environmental impacts in different categories, such as global warming potential, acidification potential or ozone depletion potential.
- Compare construction alternatives to identify more sustainable options.
In addition, to facilitate its use, a comprehensive tutorial has been developed to guide the process step by step, from data entry to the interpretation of the results. At the end of the tutorial, the following are proposed two practical exercises that help to reinforce learning and apply the tool to real cases, such as the comparison of different approaches in the construction of a single-family house.
The Calculator web app
The web application complements the excel tool by offering an intuitive interface to quickly calculate and visualise environmental impacts. Designed to be accessible from any device, this app allows to evaluate construction scenarios in real time, encouraging a more dynamic approach to sustainable decision making.
Visit the project page to explore these tools, download the excel tool, follow the tutorial and access the app, betting on a more sustainable future with a more environmentally friendly construction.
