Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

The goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development clearly point to a need for modernization and diversification in the upcoming urban models.  Climate change, social implications and economic viability, as well as cross-sectoral building and energy relationships in buildings and cities, are part of the challenges that the construction sector must rethink in the coming years.

This Special Topic aims to increase knowledge of sustainable design practices, exploring new construction solutions with techniques and materials that contribute to overcoming the challenges facing architecture and civil engineering. As designers, we must assume the responsibility to build and rehabilitate by optimizing resources and materials in all life-cycle phases, to ensure a balance between economic growth, environmental protection and social welfare. These objectives include, among others, the following:

• Life cycle-oriented building and infrastructure design;
• Inclusion of social impacts in the design of buildings and infrastructures;
• Modern methods of construction;
• Sustainable design and management of structures;
• Safe, then circular: cradle to cradle;
• Sustainable cities and society;
• Design optimization based on sustainable indicators;
• Building rehabilitation and service life extension of infrastructure;
• The use of sustainable construction materials;
• Decision-making processes that effectively integrate economic, environmental, and social aspects;
• Design optimization based on sustainable criteria.

Papers selected for this Special Topic will be subject to a rigorous peer review procedure, with the aim of the rapid and wide dissemination of research results, developments, and applications.

Prof. Dr. Víctor Yepes
Dr. Ignacio J. Navarro Martínez
Dr. Antonio J. Sánchez-Garrido
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Sustainability sustainability	3.3	6.8	2009	19.7 Days	CHF 2400
Buildings buildings	3.1	3.4	2011	15.3 Days	CHF 2600
Infrastructures infrastructures	2.7	5.2	2016	17.8 Days	CHF 1800
Technologies technologies	4.2	6.7	2013	21.1 Days	CHF 1600
Urban Science urbansci	2.1	4.3	2017	20.7 Days	CHF 1600

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Published Papers (25 papers)

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24 pages, 23404 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Construction of a Sustainability-Based Building Attribute Conservation Assessment Model in Historic Areas

by Sisi Xia, Bomin Liu and Haobing Wang

Buildings 2022, 12(9), 1346; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12091346 - 31 Aug 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2972

Abstract

As important locations that carry the spirit and culture of the city, the conservation and regeneration of historic areas should be a sustainable process. However, in the current Chinese urban historical and cultural heritage conservation system, there is a certain degree of discontinuity [...] Read more.

As important locations that carry the spirit and culture of the city, the conservation and regeneration of historic areas should be a sustainable process. However, in the current Chinese urban historical and cultural heritage conservation system, there is a certain degree of discontinuity in the management of the two-level division between historic districts and heritage protection units, resulting in a lack of control over the renewal of other buildings in the district. The fragmented conservation of historic districts eventually leads to the loss of the historical culture and urban spirit they are supposed to carry, which is not in line with the requirements of sustainable conservation. This study aims to combine sustainability theories with the essential properties of buildings to construct an assessment model to address this issue. Through integrating the discussion on the nature of building and the sustainability assessment dimensions, three aspects of common concern can be identified as economic, cultural, and social. As the ontology for transmitting and preserving culture for future generations, building should take on the three major responsibilities of presenting and inheriting regional culture, improving regional conservation and developing economic functions. Therefore, the three dimensions of sustainability-based building attributes are “Economy of construction, Cultural of form, and Social of benefit”. A sustainable assessment model is constructed based on the three dimensions, which can help to dynamically monitor changes in building attributes during implementation. Finally, a case study was analyzed using the proposed model, and the feasibility and applicability of the assessment model were proved. The model provides effective guidance for comparative evaluation before and after the implementation of protecting plans, and corrects deviations to sustainable conservation goals in a timely manner. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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21 pages, 1475 KiB  

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Selected Techniques for Cutting SO_x Emissions in Maritime Industry

by Christos Papadopoulos, Marios Kourtelesis, Anastasia Maria Moschovi, Konstantinos Miltiadis Sakkas and Iakovos Yakoumis

Technologies 2022, 10(5), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies10050099 - 30 Aug 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5949

Abstract

Burning fuels with high sulfur content leads to SO_x emissions, especially SO₂, which leads to various environmental and health problems. The maritime sector is responsible for 13% of the global anthropogenic emissions of SO₂. Thus, the International Maritime [...] Read more.

Burning fuels with high sulfur content leads to SO_x emissions, especially SO₂, which leads to various environmental and health problems. The maritime sector is responsible for 13% of the global anthropogenic emissions of SO₂. Thus, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has issued a protocol, known as MARPOL Annex VI, which aims to further limit SO₂ emissions derived from ships along with NO_x, particulate matter and volatile organic compound emissions. This has led ship owners and operators to choose between more expensive fuels with low sulfur content or to apply a DeSO_x solution, which still allows them to use the cheapest heavy fuel oil. The current work reviews the state-of-the-art DeSO_x solutions both for the maritime and land-based sector. Next, it proposes an alternative cheaper and environmentally friendly DeSO_x solution based on the selective reduction of SO₂ to elemental sulfur by utilizing a catalytic converter based on metal oxides, similar to the ones used in the automotive industry. Finally, it reviews the most promising metal oxide catalysts reported in the literature for the selective reduction of SO₂ towards elemental sulfur. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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19 pages, 1005 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Key Indicators of Social Impact Assessment for Sponge City PPPs: A Sustainable Development Perspective

by Wei Li, Jiyue Guo, Jingfeng Yuan, Henry J. Liu and David J. Edwards

Buildings 2022, 12(9), 1329; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12091329 - 30 Aug 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3063

Abstract

Sponge city (SPC) is currently being promoted as an initiative under the principle of sustainable development to solve the urban water crisis across China. Moreover, with the introduction of the public-private partnerships (PPPs) in SPC development, the public’s concern regarding SPC PPPs has [...] Read more.

Sponge city (SPC) is currently being promoted as an initiative under the principle of sustainable development to solve the urban water crisis across China. Moreover, with the introduction of the public-private partnerships (PPPs) in SPC development, the public’s concern regarding SPC PPPs has increased in terms of their more sophisticated outcomes and greater social impacts than general urban development. Thus, to develop an effective set of SIA key indicators for SPC PPPs, this study uses social impact theory (SIT) to explore in greater detail the influencing mechanism for the social impact assessment (SIA) conceptual model proposed in the authors’ previous studies. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was applied to examine whether the hypothesized relationships in the influencing mechanism fit the empirical data and to further consolidate the SIA key indicators. Based on a survey questionnaire and CFA results, a verified and refined SIA framework using 23 key indicators and five corresponding dimensions was proposed, particularly within the context of SPC PPPs. Implications generated from the CFA were discussed to improve the comprehensive performance of sponge city PPPs. These 23 key indicators and the clarification of their relationships to the respective SIA dimensions and to the overall SIA results can be a useful tool for enhancing the social benefits of SPC PPPs. Moreover, this study also provides governments with insights into enabling the low-impact and sustainable development of infrastructure within urban areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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27 pages, 3198 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Sustainability in Infrastructure Construction—A Review Study on Australian Higher Education Program Offerings

by Malindu Sandanayake, Yanni Bouras and Zora Vrcelj

Infrastructures 2022, 7(9), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/infrastructures7090109 - 25 Aug 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4767

Abstract

Infrastructure advancement is a key attribute that defines the development and effective growth of a city or region. Since the introduction of the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals (UN SDGs), more construction companies are focusing on adopting sustainable construction practices. However, a lack [...] Read more.

Infrastructure advancement is a key attribute that defines the development and effective growth of a city or region. Since the introduction of the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals (UN SDGs), more construction companies are focusing on adopting sustainable construction practices. However, a lack of relevant competencies among employees at various infrastructure construction organizations often hinders the successful implementation of sustainable practices. Education that facilitates systematic professional development and contemporary competencies’ acquisition is a key to overcoming this barrier. Thus, the current study adopts a three-stage review to identify current research trends and inform future research directions for the enhancement of the environmental sustainability competencies base for infrastructure professionals. A bibliometric assessment was first conducted followed by a focused literature review on sustainability education. Subsequently, two engineering and construction higher education curricula were assessed for infrastructure sustainability content. The results from the three-step analysis indicate that the growing interest in sustainability concepts in the construction industry is driven by policy changes. A lack of financial incentives, the unavailability of resources, a lack of motivation amongst graduates, and limited time in the infrastructure construction sector were identified as some of the major impediments for developing the environmental sustainability competencies base. The requirement for integrated and structured Continuous Professional Development (CPD) programs to facilitate ongoing knowledge acquisition and structured evaluation of professional knowledge in addition to effective undergraduate program development are highlighted. The necessity for a digitally personalised platform that can graphically represent current progress and future milestones and enable peer interaction and collaboration was also identified as critical for improving the uptake of such programs. The findings from this study could be useful for government agencies and infrastructure construction organizations keen to enhance the environmental sustainability knowledge of their employees. Future studies are required to assess sustainability education across the globe and to develop new learning components of infrastructure sustainability that are validated through stakeholder participation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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18 pages, 3638 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Improving Data-Driven Infrastructure Degradation Forecast Skill with Stepwise Asset Condition Prediction Models

by Kurt R. Lamm, Justin D. Delorit, Michael N. Grussing and Steven J. Schuldt

Buildings 2022, 12(8), 1288; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12081288 - 22 Aug 2022

Viewed by 2247

Abstract

Organizations with large facility and infrastructure portfolios have used asset management databases for over ten years to collect and standardize asset condition data. Decision makers use these data to predict asset degradation and expected service life, enabling prioritized maintenance, repair, and renovation actions [...] Read more.

Organizations with large facility and infrastructure portfolios have used asset management databases for over ten years to collect and standardize asset condition data. Decision makers use these data to predict asset degradation and expected service life, enabling prioritized maintenance, repair, and renovation actions that reduce asset life-cycle costs and achieve organizational objectives. However, these asset condition forecasts are calculated using standardized, self-correcting distribution models that rely on poorly-fit, continuous functions. This research presents four stepwise asset condition forecast models that utilize historical asset inspection data to improve prediction accuracy: (1) Slope, (2) Weighted Slope, (3) Condition-Intelligent Weighted Slope, and (4) Nearest Neighbor. Model performance was evaluated against BUILDER SMS, the industry-standard asset management database, using data for five roof types on 8549 facilities across 61 U.S. military bases within the United States. The stepwise Weighted Slope model more accurately predicted asset degradation 92% of the time, as compared to the industry standard’s continuous self-correcting prediction model. These results suggest that using historical condition data, alongside or in-place of manufacturer expected service life, may increase the accuracy of degradation and failure prediction models. Additionally, as data quantity increases over time, the models presented are expected to improve prediction skills. The resulting improvements in forecasting enable decision makers to manage facility assets more proactively and achieve better returns on facility investments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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26 pages, 4341 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Building Interventions in Mediterranean Towns—Developing a Framework for Selecting the Optimal Spatial Organization and Construction Technology from a Sustainable Development Perspective

by Ivan Marović, Iva Mrak, Denis Ambruš and Josip Krstičević

Buildings 2022, 12(8), 1233; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12081233 - 13 Aug 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3429

Abstract

Mediterranean towns and their surroundings show specific characteristics, such as urban structure, presence of complex stratification of heritage, and often seasonality, which makes the choice of spatial organization and construction technology for building construction of high importance in relation to sustainable development. For [...] Read more.

Mediterranean towns and their surroundings show specific characteristics, such as urban structure, presence of complex stratification of heritage, and often seasonality, which makes the choice of spatial organization and construction technology for building construction of high importance in relation to sustainable development. For such purpose, the SOnCT model, based on multi-criteria decision analysis, has been developed which takes into account optimal building interventions in Mediterranean towns from a sustainable development perspective, highlighting their spatial-technical aspects. The presented research answers the questions of how sustainable development goals can be implemented in the case of construction interventions in Mediterranean areas, especially in smaller settlements that present very fragile status and specific characteristics not comparable to northern towns. This paper presents the construction and verification of the evaluation and prioritization model for selecting the optimal spatial organization and construction technology based on the criteria of sustainability, spatial characteristics, and the United Nations’ Sustainable development goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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14 pages, 2836 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Development of an Eco-Design Tool for a Circular Approach to Building Renovation Projects

by Inês Bourgeois, Alexandra Queirós, Joaquim Oliveira, Hugo Rodrigues, Romeu Vicente and Victor M. Ferreira

Sustainability 2022, 14(14), 8969; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14148969 - 21 Jul 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3395

Abstract

Considering the construction sector’s impact on the environment, it is necessary amongst other measures to change the way in which new construction or renovation projects of buildings are designed and how solutions are proposed and integrated. Nowadays, an effort is being made by [...] Read more.

Considering the construction sector’s impact on the environment, it is necessary amongst other measures to change the way in which new construction or renovation projects of buildings are designed and how solutions are proposed and integrated. Nowadays, an effort is being made by designers to implement more sustainable and circular design in buildings, but because of the lack of tools that can provide designers with knowledge about the impacts of the solutions to be chosen, the sustainability factor does not enter in the decision-making process as a key factor. In this sense, the development of an eco-design tool and procedure for the decision-making process will allow designers to integrate into the design phase a circular design methodology and, in a practical way, will also promote sustainability and circularity concepts as a decision factor in the construction of buildings. The present work introduces an eco-design tool that was developed to integrate circularity and sustainability information into building-renovation projects. This tool enables the evaluation and comparison of solutions based on information provided by Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) or other LCA-based calculations as well as life cycle costing information, through the generation of radar graphics that simplify the overall analysis at the decision moment. The tool was tested in a simple case study of a building renovation process and allowed designers to understand the environmental and economic impacts that each competing solution carries, either related to the materials removed from the building or to the materials coming into the buildings being renovated. In this test application, the eco-design tool proved to be able to gather quantitative information regarding environmental and economic impacts, facilitating designers to access knowledge on the different solutions impacts and help them to make a design choice based on sustainability and circularity considerations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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24 pages, 8818 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Scale Model Experiments and Simulations to Investigate the Effect of Vehicular Blockage on Backlayering Length in Tunnel Fire

by Yu-Tsung Ho, Nobuyoshi Kawabata, Miho Seike, Masato Hasegawa, Shen-Wen Chien and Tzu-Sheng Shen

Buildings 2022, 12(7), 1006; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12071006 - 13 Jul 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2339

Abstract

This study used model experiments and numerical simulations to investigate the backlayering length of a vehicle-blocked tunnel fire. The experimental setup included two types of obstacles (low obstacles and high obstacles), as well as three configurations: no obstacles, one side with a car [...] Read more.

This study used model experiments and numerical simulations to investigate the backlayering length of a vehicle-blocked tunnel fire. The experimental setup included two types of obstacles (low obstacles and high obstacles), as well as three configurations: no obstacles, one side with a car obstacle, and two sides with a car obstacle. If there were vehicles on one side of a lane, it would have little effect on the elongation of the backlayer length. When there were vehicles on both sides of a lane, the elongation of the backlayer length was greatly reduced. In addition, the effects of the vehicular blockage ratio and blockage configuration on the properties of the backlayering length were investigated. We created Pattern A, where fire is was in the center, and Pattern B, where fire was on the side of the tunnel. In Pattern A, almost all obstacles could be approximated using the formula. When the vehicle blockage ratio of a single lane was small, an approximation formula for Pattern B was applicable. However, if the distance between stationary vehicles on the upstream side of the fire source was small, the backlayering length could have been longer than in the case with no vehicular blockage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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14 pages, 6220 KiB  

Open AccessEssay

Comprehensive Geophysical Measurement in Seismic Safety Evaluation: A Case Study of East Lake High-Tech Development Zone, China

by Wei Wang, Cong Jin, Denggui Luo, Yongjian Cai and Song Lin

Sustainability 2022, 14(10), 6307; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14106307 - 22 May 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2076

Abstract

Wuhan East Lake High-tech Development Zone is a National Innovation Demonstration Zone where several major projects are under construction. For the seismic safety evaluation of the zone, it is urgent to find out basic data such as stratigraphic structure, geometric characteristics of buried [...] Read more.

Wuhan East Lake High-tech Development Zone is a National Innovation Demonstration Zone where several major projects are under construction. For the seismic safety evaluation of the zone, it is urgent to find out basic data such as stratigraphic structure, geometric characteristics of buried faults, and overburden thickness. In this study, seismic reflection and microtremor surveys are adopted in seismic safety evaluation in urban areas for the first time. Combined with borehole data, the overburden thickness and buried faults in the target area are detected and analyzed. The results are as follows: ① The seismic reflection detection is carried out for the possible hidden locations of the Xiangfan-Guangji Fault and Macheng-Tuanfeng Fault in the target area, and the obtained high-resolution seismic reflection profiles can be used to precisely divide the stratigraphic structure and preliminarily find out the geometric characteristics such as the strike, tendency, and the buried depth of the upper breakpoint of the buried faults. ② A microtremor survey is carried out in key regions of the target area, and the obtained velocity structure imaging can provide a perspective window into the urban underground space structure and accurately determine overburden thickness and the depth of strongly and moderately weathered bedrock. Comprehensive geophysical measurements can better realize the acquisition of basic data such as the stratigraphic structure of complex regions and characteristics of urban buried faults, which provides an important basis for seismic fortification. At the same time, the combined application of geophysical methods avoids the detection of the blind area and provides a guarantee for urban safety and sustainable development. Furthermore, the study has reference value for seismic safety evaluation in similar areas of the world. If comprehensive geophysical measurement can be popularized, its economic and scientific value will be immeasurable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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20 pages, 7415 KiB  

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Application of Multi-Channel Convolutional Neural Network to Improve DEM Data in Urban Cities

by Ngoc Son Nguyen, Dong Eon Kim, Yilin Jia, Srivatsan V. Raghavan and Shie Yui Liong

Technologies 2022, 10(3), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies10030061 - 13 May 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3656

Abstract

A digital elevation model (DEM) represents the topographic surface of the Earth and is an indispensable source of data in many applications, such as flood modeling, infrastructure design and land management. DEM data at high spatial resolution and high accuracy of elevation data [...] Read more.

A digital elevation model (DEM) represents the topographic surface of the Earth and is an indispensable source of data in many applications, such as flood modeling, infrastructure design and land management. DEM data at high spatial resolution and high accuracy of elevation data are not only costly and time-consuming to acquire but also often confidential. In this paper, we explore a cost-effective approach to derive good quality DEM data by applying a multi-channel convolutional neural network (CNN) to enhance free resources of available DEM data. Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) data, multi-spectral imaging Sentinel-2, as well as Google satellite imagery were used as inputs to the CNN model. The CNN model was first trained using high-quality reference DEM data in a dense urban city—Nice, France—then validated on another site in Nice and finally tested in the Orchard Road area (Singapore), which is also an equally dense urban area in Singapore. The CNN model not only shows an impressive reduction in the root mean square error (RMSE) of 50% at validation site in Nice and 30% at the test site in Singapore, but also results in much clearer profiles of the land surface than input SRTM data. A comparison between CNN performance and that of an earlier conducted study using artificial neural networks (ANN) was conducted as well. The comparison within this limited study shows that CNN yields a more accurate DEM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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18 pages, 3219 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating the Performance of Lateritic Soil Stabilized with Cement and Biomass Bottom Ash for Use as Pavement Materials

by Arsit Iyaruk, Panu Promputthangkoon and Arun Lukjan

Infrastructures 2022, 7(5), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/infrastructures7050066 - 29 Apr 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3958

Abstract

From the perspective of sustainable waste management and its environmental impact, waste biomass bottom ash (BA) remains problematic and challenging to use as a recycling material for civil engineering infrastructures. This study evaluated the performance of lateritic soil (LS), stabilized with cement and [...] Read more.

From the perspective of sustainable waste management and its environmental impact, waste biomass bottom ash (BA) remains problematic and challenging to use as a recycling material for civil engineering infrastructures. This study evaluated the performance of lateritic soil (LS), stabilized with cement and biomass BA, as a subbase material. BA has been considered a replacement material in LS prior to the introduction of hydraulic cement stabilization means. The geotechnical engineering tests comprised the modified Proctor test, the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) test, and the unconfined compression test. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) tests were conducted to investigate the mineralogical properties of the stabilized soil samples. The leachate test was performed with a permeability mold to measure the release of heavy metals. Finally, the benefits of using the stabilized subbase material were assessed using the mechanistic–empirical (M–E) pavement design approach. Based on the results obtained, the strength and stiffness characteristics of the stabilized soils indicate that the efficiency of the mix satisfied the Thailand highway specification. The admixture of 80% BA and 5% cement is suggested for use as a soil–cement subbase material for flexible pavements, due to its good engineering and environmental properties. The results of the M–E design demonstrate the effectiveness of the stabilized soil presented herein. The study’s outcomes are predicted to promote the utilization of waste BA as a promising pavement material. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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18 pages, 3303 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Retrofitting Strategies Based on Orthogonal Array Testing to Develop Nearly Zero Energy Buildings

by Pengying Wang and Shuo Zhang

Sustainability 2022, 14(8), 4451; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14084451 - 8 Apr 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2189

Abstract

Retrofitting existing buildings to be a nearly zero energy building (nZEB) is an effective solution for greenhouse gas emissions and primary energy consumption reduction. A hybrid approach that integrates the building energy simulation method and orthogonal array testing (OAT) to renovate buildings to [...] Read more.

Retrofitting existing buildings to be a nearly zero energy building (nZEB) is an effective solution for greenhouse gas emissions and primary energy consumption reduction. A hybrid approach that integrates the building energy simulation method and orthogonal array testing (OAT) to renovate buildings to nZEB is proposed in this paper. Within a residential building in Changchun, Jilin of China, the total energy consumption index (TECI) and CO₂ emission factor for heating are used as evaluation criteria. The reliability of the building energy model is validated and adopted to forecast the energy performance of different building renovation strategies. According to OAT, four passive measures can be ranked by their influence on TECI in descending order as follows: external wall heat transfer coefficient, airtightness, window heat transfer coefficient, and roof heat transfer coefficient. The optimal renovation solution of the studied building can reduce the TECI by 43.18% by only reducing the external wall heat transfer coefficient from 0.5 to 0.2 W/m²·K and the infiltration N₅₀ from 3.6 to 0.4 ac/h. Besides, combined heat and power (CHP) utilities emit less CO₂ than heat pumps in providing heating under the current CO₂ emission factor of the power grid in China, making it impossible to give up district heating systems until carbon emissions of electricity generation have declined significantly. The results can provide a reference for the application of the nZEB standard in actual retrofitting projects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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23 pages, 3983 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Hydrological Infrastructure Projects on Land Use/Cover and Socioeconomic Development in Arid Regions—Evidence from the Upper Atbara and Setit Dam Complex, Kassala, Eastern Sudan

by Kamal Abdelrahim Mohamed Shuka, Wang Ke, Mohammad Sohail Nazar, Ghali Abdullahi Abubakar and AmirReza Shahtahamssebi

Sustainability 2022, 14(6), 3422; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14063422 - 15 Mar 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2752

Abstract

In recent years, Africa has seen much construction of large-scale hydrological infrastructures in the arid and semi-arid regions of numerous countries. This paper aims to quantify the effects of this form of hydrological infrastructure, especially the Upper Atbara and Setit Dam Complex (UASDC) [...] Read more.

In recent years, Africa has seen much construction of large-scale hydrological infrastructures in the arid and semi-arid regions of numerous countries. This paper aims to quantify the effects of this form of hydrological infrastructure, especially the Upper Atbara and Setit Dam Complex (UASDC) in Eastern Sudan, on the land use/cover (LUC) and socioeconomic domains. This paper attempts to advance our understanding of this phenomenon by using multiple approaches. A framework using the integration of 3S technologies and a logical approach for quantifying the significance of the results to society has been developed. The method used Landsat5 TM in 2002, Sentinel2A in 2018, and statistical data to create the LUC map. The final map included seven classes; the overall accuracy of changes in LUC patterns was 94.9% in 2002 and 93% in the results reveal that significant changes occurred in terms of LUC, having a considerable effect on socio-economic development. The results were analyzed with the logical approach for overall objectives, where 85% represents S1, 3.3% represents S2, and 11.7% represents S3, respectively. This study provides an insight into further investigations of the dam’s effect on climate and groundwater, and offers a new perspective on land use prediction, simulation, and environmental sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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18 pages, 7708 KiB  

Open AccessTechnical Note

To Expedite Roadway Identification and Damage Assessment in LiDAR 3D Imagery for Disaster Relief Public Assistance

by Sharad Mehta, John Peach and Andrew Weinert

Infrastructures 2022, 7(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/infrastructures7030039 - 11 Mar 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2876

Abstract

Aerial surveys using LiDAR systems can play a vital role in the quantitative assessment of infrastructure damage caused by hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters. GmAPD LiDAR provides high-resolution 3D point-cloud data which enables the surveyor to take accurate measurements of damages to [...] Read more.

Aerial surveys using LiDAR systems can play a vital role in the quantitative assessment of infrastructure damage caused by hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters. GmAPD LiDAR provides high-resolution 3D point-cloud data which enables the surveyor to take accurate measurements of damages to roads, buildings, communication towers, power lines, etc. Due to the high point cloud density, a very large volume of data is generated during an aerial survey. The data collected during the airborne imaging is post-processed with calibration, geo-registration, and segmentation. Albeit very accurate, extracting useful information from this data is a slow and laborious process. For disaster response, methods of automating this process have spurred the development of simple, fast algorithms that can be used to recognize physical structures from the point-cloud data that can later be assessed for structural damage. In this paper, we describe an efficient algorithm to extract roadways from a massive Lidar data-set to assist the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in assessing road conditions as a step toward helping surveyors expedite a quantitative assessment of road damages for providing and distributing public assistance for disaster relief. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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16 pages, 25184 KiB  

Open AccessCase Report

Monitoring and Calculation Study in Mediterranean Residential Spaces: Thermal Performance Comparison for the Winter Season

by Bruno Oliveira Santana, Jefferson Torres-Quezada, Helena Coch and Antonio Isalgue

Buildings 2022, 12(3), 325; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12030325 - 9 Mar 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2288

Abstract

In cold regions, the reduction in envelope thermal transmittance is often the dominant parameter in ensuring thermal comfort in buildings. However, countries in warmer climates have also adopted this same strategy, often neglecting other parameters that are more influential in their respective climate [...] Read more.

In cold regions, the reduction in envelope thermal transmittance is often the dominant parameter in ensuring thermal comfort in buildings. However, countries in warmer climates have also adopted this same strategy, often neglecting other parameters that are more influential in their respective climate regions that can achieve thermal comfort. This study focuses on passive building strategies to ensure a building’s thermal comfort conditions in Mediterranean climates in the winter. This monitoring study compares two dwellings during the winter in Barcelona, Spain, in order to analyze the impact of not only the envelope’s thermal properties on indoor temperature, but also the role of other factors such as outdoor temperature and solar gains. The dwellings were built in different decades, each following distinct building technical codes, diverse construction techniques, and building materials. The methodology used in this study is based on thermal measurements, meteorological data, and spreadsheet calculations. Comparing these results with the recent updates in Spain’s technical code and other studies, the investigation demonstrates that to achieve a suitable indoor thermal temperature in a passive way, especially in Mediterranean climates, incorporating other factors such as the combination of thermal inertia and solar gains can be more effective than a strategy mainly focused on reducing thermal transmittance. This analysis demonstrates that a building’s thermal performance does not mainly depend on envelope thermal transmittance, but rather a complex system involving a set of variables such as thermal inertia as well as solar gains, based on parameters such as building orientation and urban context. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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21 pages, 6685 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

BIM-Based Green Hospital Building Performance Pre-Evaluation: A Case Study

by Zhaoxi Zhan, Wenna Xu, Lin Xu, Xinyue Qi, Wenjie Song, Chen Wang and Ziye Huang

Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2066; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042066 - 11 Feb 2022

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 4990

Abstract

With ecological problems and energy crises intensifying today, greening is essential to sustainable development. Compared with other types of buildings, hospital buildings account for a relatively larger proportion of building energy consumption. In order to realize the rapid cycle optimization of a green [...] Read more.

With ecological problems and energy crises intensifying today, greening is essential to sustainable development. Compared with other types of buildings, hospital buildings account for a relatively larger proportion of building energy consumption. In order to realize the rapid cycle optimization of a green hospital project in the design stage and improve the green grade of the building, a pre-evaluation Building Information Model (BIM) of green hospital building performance was established in this study. Firstly, the literature review and expert consultation established the building performance pre-evaluation index system for green hospitals. Then, BIM technology is taken to extract data needed for building a performance pre-evaluation system, and the Cloud Model and the Matter–Element Extension Theory are used to build models. The final green grade calculation is realized in MATLAB. Finally, the Maluan Bay Hospital is taken as an example to test the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed model. The results show that the green hospital building performance pre-evaluation model has advantages of simulation, cyclic optimization and fuzzy quantification, which can effectively guide the design and construction of a green hospital. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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13 pages, 3011 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Analysis of Different Influencing Factors on the In-Plane Failure Mode of Unreinforced Masonry (URM) Structures

by Pengfei Ma, Jitao Yao and Yukun Hu

Buildings 2022, 12(2), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12020183 - 5 Feb 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2298

Abstract

The research work herein presented is aimed at investigating the effects of different influencing factors on the in-plane failure mode of unreinforced masonry (URM) structures. Firstly, the in-plane stress failure criterion cited in this paper was introduced, and the corresponding judgment procedure was [...] Read more.

The research work herein presented is aimed at investigating the effects of different influencing factors on the in-plane failure mode of unreinforced masonry (URM) structures. Firstly, the in-plane stress failure criterion cited in this paper was introduced, and the corresponding judgment procedure was demonstrated. Then, various finite element models considering different influencing factors were established, which included the aspect ratio of pier (η), stiffness ratio of pier to spandrel (ρ) and vertical load (σ). Furthermore, the in-plane stress failure criterion that we introduced was used to evaluate the failure modes of each model. The main findings of the simulations were as follows: under the condition of (η ≤ 1.0), three failure modes emerged in all models, which included pier, mixed and spandrel failure modes, with the gradual increase in ρ. Once the value of η exceeded 1.0, all models exhibited the pier failure mode regardless of whether the value of ρ increased or decreased. Moreover, under the identical aspect ratio (η = 1.0), the failure modes of the models altered regularly with the increase in the value of σ (from 0.3 MPa to 0.6 MPa), which transferred from pier failure to mixed failure, and from mixed failure to spandrel failure. The research results not only provide theoretical reference for the design of new masonry buildings, but also provide technical guidance for the judgement and prediction of failure modes of existing masonry buildings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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27 pages, 4666 KiB  

Open AccessReview

Global Prospects, Advance Technologies and Policies of Energy-Saving and Sustainable Building Systems: A Review

by Md. Washim Akram, Muhammad Firdaus Mohd Zublie, Md. Hasanuzzaman and Nasrudin Abd Rahim

Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1316; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031316 - 24 Jan 2022

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 7470

Abstract

Automation, modernization, economic development and global progress depends on efficient extraction and utilization of energy. Power generation by burning fossil fuels makes various adverse impacts on the environment. Additionally, the worldwide fossil fuel reserve is limited and depleting very fast. Hence, efficient energy [...] Read more.

Automation, modernization, economic development and global progress depends on efficient extraction and utilization of energy. Power generation by burning fossil fuels makes various adverse impacts on the environment. Additionally, the worldwide fossil fuel reserve is limited and depleting very fast. Hence, efficient energy usage and savings are crucial to address the environmental issues to ensure sustainable development. Buildings, both commercial and residential, represent a major energy consumption sector. Approximately 40% of the total energy is reportedly consumed in the building sector. Worldwide building energy consumption, performance measuring systems and best practices, energy-saving techniques and policies are reviewed and summarized in this article. Underfloor air distribution, double-glazed windows, use of highly efficient electric motors and variable speed drives may play a great role in reducing building energy consumption. In the UK, the application of double-glazed windows in commercial buildings can save 39–53% energy. The proper maintenance of a building’s central heating system can save up to 11% energy. The automatic HVAC control system can reduce up to 20% of the building’s total heating load. Proper utilization of a VSD system in motor and building performance optimization by an ANOVA tool also proved instrumental in saving energy. Apart from this, the building codes of different countries also help to improve building performance by reducing energy consumption. This study will help building researchers and policymakers to make a framework for sustainable, green building. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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16 pages, 5225 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Design Interventions on Occupant Satisfaction: A Workplace Pre-and Post-Occupancy Evaluation Analysis

by Abimbola Asojo, Hoa Vo and Suyeon Bae

Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 13571; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132413571 - 8 Dec 2021

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5264

Abstract

Understanding how occupants perceive the built environment is a growing interest in sustainability research. This article looks into how design interventions in a workplace renovation project impact occupants’ satisfaction through a pre-and post-occupancy survey. In two years (from 2016 to 2018), an interdisciplinary [...] Read more.

Understanding how occupants perceive the built environment is a growing interest in sustainability research. This article looks into how design interventions in a workplace renovation project impact occupants’ satisfaction through a pre-and post-occupancy survey. In two years (from 2016 to 2018), an interdisciplinary research team from the University of Minnesota administered online occupancy surveys at the headquarters of the Cuningham Group, a national renowned design firm in Minnesota. The surveys included 12 indoor environmental quality categories (with 26 criteria on a 7-point Likert scale) that measured how occupants perceived their existing workplace and the renovated environment. Mann–Whitney U tests and Chi-square tests were conducted for 12 indoor environmental quality categories between the pre-and post-surveys. Results showed that occupants’ satisfaction significantly increased with the design interventions in the renovated workplace. Perceived work performance and health also improved in the post-survey. Among 12 indoor environmental quality categories, occupants perceived the biggest improvements in lighting such as adjustability and quality of task lighting. Design interventions in electric lighting, especially improved ease of control, effectiveness of automatic systems, plus visual and acoustic comfort, contributed to occupants’ satisfaction. Overall, the pre-and post-occupancy evaluation survey analysis confirmed the positive impact of the renovated Cuningham Group facility. The article presents a comprehensive measure of the impact of the data-driven design interventions derived from pre-and post-occupancy evaluation surveys on occupant satisfaction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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33 pages, 8021 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Thermal Performance Optimization of Double and Triple Glazing Systems for Slovenian Climate Conditions

by Anita Prapotnik Brdnik

Sustainability 2021, 13(21), 11857; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132111857 - 27 Oct 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3667

Abstract

Glazing elements are an important part of the thermal envelope of a building. Therefore, good thermal performance of glazing elements can improve indoor comfort and reduce annual maintenance costs and CO₂ (carbon dioxide) emissions by reducing heat loss. Reducing heat loss through [...] Read more.

Glazing elements are an important part of the thermal envelope of a building. Therefore, good thermal performance of glazing elements can improve indoor comfort and reduce annual maintenance costs and CO₂ (carbon dioxide) emissions by reducing heat loss. Reducing heat loss through glazing elements during the heating season can be achieved by combining low thermal transmittance with high solar heat gain. Using standardized calculation methods and measured climate data for three Slovenian locations representing typical continental, mountainous and Mediterranean climates, this study predicts the best combination of optical properties (emissivity, transmittance and reflectance) of glass panes in double and triple glazing systems that contribute to minimal heat loss. It was found that for the double glazing system, the minimum heating and cooling demand for buildings with low solar gains or high solar gains and applied shading is achieved by an inner pane with high transmittance without low-emissivity coating, and an outer pane with low-emissivity coating with minimum possible emissivity. In Maribor and Portorož climatic zones, the panes with low emissivity coating should be used as inner panes in buildings with high solar gains. For triple glazing, the minimum heating and cooling requirements are achieved with two or three panes with low emissivity. For buildings with low solar gains, an emissivity of the coating of 0.03 is preferable, but for buildings with high solar gains, lower emissivity values should be used. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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12 pages, 841 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Technological Innovation, Production Efficiency, and Sustainable Development: A Case Study from Shenzhen in China

by Sheng Zhang, Meng Xu, Yifu Yang and Zeyu Song

Sustainability 2021, 13(19), 10827; https://doi.org/10.3390/su131910827 - 29 Sep 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3844

Abstract

Shenzhen is a national sustainable development innovation demonstration zone, with the theme of innovation leading the sustainable development of megacities. This manuscript studies technological innovation, production efficiency, and sustainable development and explores the impact of their relationship on Shenzhen. The benchmark test shows [...] Read more.

Shenzhen is a national sustainable development innovation demonstration zone, with the theme of innovation leading the sustainable development of megacities. This manuscript studies technological innovation, production efficiency, and sustainable development and explores the impact of their relationship on Shenzhen. The benchmark test shows a significant negative correlation between the inefficiency of production, labor levels, investment levels, technical levels, and socioeconomic status. From 2001 to 2019, the production efficiencies of 21 prefecture-level cities in Guangdong Province were used as the research object. The Cobb–Douglas production function conducted panel stochastic frontier analysis and TOBIT regression, and the conclusion was robust. The mechanism test found that the economic growth of Guangdong Province, including Shenzhen, is still dominated by labor and investment. Its production efficiency has been dramatically impacted after 2008, and the increase in production inefficiency may be affected by the crowding-out effect of a four-trillion investment. Finally, based on the Tobit regression, we found that the rise in the labor force, capital input, technological level, and socioeconomic development level could reduce Shenzhen’s production inefficiencies by 3.6%, 20.2%, 2.5%, and 4%, respectively. There is still a long way to achieve sustainable development; however, Shenzhen’s technological innovation and mega-city reform process will provide valuable insights for other regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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20 pages, 2356 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Earthquake Damage Repair Loss Estimation in New Zealand: What Other Variables Are Essential Based on Experts’ Opinions?

by Ravindu K. A. V. D. Kahandawa, Niluka D. Domingo, Gregory Chawynski and S. R. Uma

Buildings 2021, 11(9), 385; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11090385 - 28 Aug 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3323

Abstract

Major earthquakes can cause extensive damage to buildings and alter both the natural and built environments. Accurately estimating the financial impact from these events is complex, and the damage is not always visible to the naked eye. PACT, SLAT, and HAZUS are some [...] Read more.

Major earthquakes can cause extensive damage to buildings and alter both the natural and built environments. Accurately estimating the financial impact from these events is complex, and the damage is not always visible to the naked eye. PACT, SLAT, and HAZUS are some of the computer-based tools designed to predict probable damage before an earthquake. However, there are no identifiable models built for post-earthquake use. This paper focuses on verifying the significance and usage of variables that specifically need to be considered for the post-earthquake cost estimation of earthquake damage repair work (CEEDRW). The research was conducted using a questionnaire survey involving 92 participants who have experience in cost estimating earthquake damage repair work in New Zealand. The Weighted Average, Relative Importance Index (RII), and Exploratory Factor Analysis were used to analyse the data. The research verified that eleven major variables that are significant to the CEEDRW and should be incorporated to cost estimation models. Verified variables can be used to develop a post-earthquake repair cost estimation tool and can be used to improve the pre-earthquake loss prediction tools. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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13 pages, 2009 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Decommissioning Cemeteries on the Urban Ecosystem

by Anna Myślińska, Jakub Szczepański and Witold Dłubakowski

Sustainability 2021, 13(16), 9303; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13169303 - 19 Aug 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3587

Abstract

The decommissioning of cemeteries noticeably transforms the urban fabric. The purpose of this article was to determine what impact the decommissioning of cemeteries has on the urban ecosystem. For this purpose, it was necessary to assess the value of cemeteries within the urban [...] Read more.

The decommissioning of cemeteries noticeably transforms the urban fabric. The purpose of this article was to determine what impact the decommissioning of cemeteries has on the urban ecosystem. For this purpose, it was necessary to assess the value of cemeteries within the urban ecosystem. Cemeteries are classified as urban green spaces, and their value as preservers of flora and fauna in local ecosystems has been proven. However, numerous decaying bodies in one place could have adverse effects on the environment. In order to assess the impact of transforming cemetery areas for other uses in the context of sustainable city development, it is necessary to define what these other functions might be. This article presents the main reasons for decommissioning cemeteries and links them with subsequent land use. The history of cemetery locations in five major Polish cities was analyzed to determine the extent to which cemeteries were decommissioned. In the two cities with the highest number of decommissioned cemeteries, further research was carried out in order to establish the typical land use of these former cemeteries, whether this usage is related to the size or type of the former cemetery, and whether change in land use is an advantage or a disadvantage for the urban ecosystem. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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17 pages, 1612 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Federated Digital Platforms: Value Chain Integration for Sustainable Infrastructure Planning and Delivery

by Konrad Nübel, Michael Max Bühler and Thorsten Jelinek

Sustainability 2021, 13(16), 8996; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13168996 - 11 Aug 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 7762

Abstract

Twenty-first century infrastructure needs to respond to changing demographics, becoming climate neutral, resilient, and economically affordable, while remaining a driver for development and shared prosperity. However, the infrastructure sector remains one of the least innovative and digitalized, plagued by delays, cost overruns, and [...] Read more.

Twenty-first century infrastructure needs to respond to changing demographics, becoming climate neutral, resilient, and economically affordable, while remaining a driver for development and shared prosperity. However, the infrastructure sector remains one of the least innovative and digitalized, plagued by delays, cost overruns, and benefit shortfalls. The authors assessed trends and barriers in the planning and delivery of infrastructure based on secondary research, qualitative interviews with internationally leading experts, and expert workshops. The analysis concludes that the root-cause of the industry’s problems is the prevailing fragmentation of the infrastructure value chain and a lacking long-term vision for infrastructure. To help overcome these challenges, an integration of the value chain is needed. The authors propose that this could be achieved through a use-case-based, as well as vision and governance-driven creation of federated digital platforms applied to infrastructure projects and outline a concept. Digital platforms enable full-lifecycle participation and responsible governance guided by a shared infrastructure vision. This paper has contributed as policy recommendation to the Group of Twenty (G20) in 2021. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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13 pages, 3736 KiB  

Open AccessCase Report

Case Study of an Automated Mower to Support Airport Sustainability

by Sarah Hubbard, Adam Baxmeyer and Bryan Hubbard

Sustainability 2021, 13(16), 8867; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13168867 - 8 Aug 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3786

Abstract

This paper documents a case study of an automated mower to support sustainability at an airport. Mowing is an essential component of an airport’s Wildlife Hazard Management Plan (WHMP), which reduces the risk of birds and other wildlife to aircraft operations. Many airports [...] Read more.

This paper documents a case study of an automated mower to support sustainability at an airport. Mowing is an essential component of an airport’s Wildlife Hazard Management Plan (WHMP), which reduces the risk of birds and other wildlife to aircraft operations. Many airports have large areas of land (hundreds or even thousands of acres), which requires significant resources to manage and mow; experience at the Purdue Airport (KLAF) suggests that automated mowing may support economic and environmental aspects of sustainability. Automated mowing supports economic efficiency by reducing personnel requirements, although personnel are still needed for inspections, maintenance, and “mower rescue” if there is a malfunction (technical or field issue). Automated mowing supports environmental impacts by reducing local emissions since the mower is powered by electricity rather than gasoline; this benefit would be increased with the use of solar-powered mowers. Automated mowing may not be viable everywhere, and factors such as terrain, access to available power, acreage, and location on the airfield (including proximity to protected areas) must be carefully considered. Although automated mowing will not completely replace traditional mowing in the near future, autonomous mowers in remote areas may be an appropriate practice to support airport sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in the Sustainability Assessment of Building and Infrastructure Projects)

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