Topic Editors

School of Computing and Engineering, University of West London, London W5 5RF, UK
School of Computing Engineering and the Built Environment, Edinburg Napier University, Edinburgh EH11 4BN, UK

Innovative Approaches for Carbon Reduction in the Built Environment: Advancing Energy Efficiency and Sustainability with AI and Beyond

Abstract submission deadline
31 October 2026
Manuscript submission deadline
31 January 2027
Viewed by
3990

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

Buildings account for roughly 37–39% of global carbon emissions, making the built environment a crucial target for climate change mitigation. Recent research trends leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to transform how building carbon emissions are analyzed and reduced. AI techniques (e.g., neural networks, deep learning, genetic algorithms) are increasingly used to optimize building energy efficiency, predict buildings’ carbon footprints, and enhance decision-making in sustainable design. Studies show that AI and big data analytics can significantly improve the accuracy of building energy use and emission predictions, enabling smarter operational controls to achieve emission reduction goals. For example, AI-driven systems can intelligently manage HVAC and lighting based on occupancy and weather, curtailing energy waste and reducing real-time carbon output. By integrating data-driven insights across a building’s life cycle, AI empowers more efficient, low-carbon buildings and supports global net-zero carbon objectives in the built environment.

Prof. Dr. Ali Bahadori-Jahromi
Prof. Dr. Johnson Zhang
Topic Editors

Keywords

  • artificial intelligence (AI)
  • machine learning (ML)
  • building carbon emissions
  • carbon footprint
  • built environment
  • sustainable buildings
  • climate change mitigation
  • energy efficiency
  • low-carbon design
  • life cycle assessment (LCA)

Participating Journals

Journal Name Impact Factor CiteScore Launched Year First Decision (median) APC
Atmosphere
atmosphere
2.3 4.9 2010 19.7 Days CHF 2400 Submit
Buildings
buildings
3.1 4.4 2011 15.1 Days CHF 2600 Submit
Energies
energies
3.2 7.3 2008 16.8 Days CHF 2600 Submit
Sustainability
sustainability
3.3 7.7 2009 17.9 Days CHF 2400 Submit

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Published Papers (2 papers)

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48 pages, 3927 KB  
Article
Automating Building Energy Performance Simulation with EnergyPlus Using Modular JSON–Python Workflows: A Case Study of the Hilton Watford Hotel
by Justine Osei-Owusu, Ali Bahadori-Jahromi, Shiva Amirkhani and Paulina Godfrey
Sustainability 2025, 17(22), 10317; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172210317 - 18 Nov 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1922
Abstract
Accurate prediction of building energy performance is critical for achieving sustainability goals and reducing operational costs. This study presents a novel and automated simulation framework that integrates EnergyPlus 25.1 with modular JSON configurations and Python 3.11 scripting to streamline the modelling and analysis [...] Read more.
Accurate prediction of building energy performance is critical for achieving sustainability goals and reducing operational costs. This study presents a novel and automated simulation framework that integrates EnergyPlus 25.1 with modular JSON configurations and Python 3.11 scripting to streamline the modelling and analysis process. Using the Hilton Watford Hotel in the UK as a case study, the framework generates detailed Input Data Files (IDFs) based on architectural and operational data, enabling efficient exploration of various usage scenarios through batch simulations. Automation is achieved using custom Python scripts built on the Eppy library, allowing scalable modification and generation of simulation inputs. Post-processing and visualisation are performed using Pandas 2.0.3, NumPy 1.25.2, and Matplotlib 3.7.2, while model outputs are calibrated against measured performance data in accordance with ASHRAE guidelines. To enhance predictive capabilities, machine learning algorithms—Random Forest and XGBoost—are applied to estimate annual energy consumption under different operating conditions. This integrated approach not only reduces manual modelling effort but also narrows the gap between predicted and actual performance, offering a replicable pathway for retrofitting analysis and energy policy support in similar commercial buildings. Full article
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36 pages, 1536 KB  
Review
A Visual and Strategic Framework for Integrated Renewable Energy Systems: Bridging Technological, Economic, Environmental, Social, and Regulatory Dimensions
by Kenneth Chukwuma Nwala, Moses Jeremiah Barasa Kabeyi and Oludolapo Akanni Olanrewaju
Energies 2025, 18(20), 5468; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18205468 - 17 Oct 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1659
Abstract
Renewable energy integration is no longer a solely technical endeavor; it necessitates a multidimensional transformation that spans technological, economic, environmental, social, and regulatory dimensions. This review presents a visual and strategic framework for addressing the complex challenges of integrating solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, [...] Read more.
Renewable energy integration is no longer a solely technical endeavor; it necessitates a multidimensional transformation that spans technological, economic, environmental, social, and regulatory dimensions. This review presents a visual and strategic framework for addressing the complex challenges of integrating solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass energy systems. The objective is to redefine traditional approaches by linking specific integration barriers to tailored strategies and measurable outcomes. The study uses comparative analysis, regional case studies, and a variety of visual tools—such as flowcharts, spider charts, and challenge–strategy–outcome maps—to spatially express interdependencies and trade-offs. These tools enable stakeholders to determine the best integration pathways based on performance measures, regional restrictions, and system synergies. The results reveal that visual mapping not only clarifies complex system dynamics, but also enhances stakeholder collaboration by translating technical data into accessible formats. The framework supports adaptive planning, smart grid adoption, and community-centered microgrid development. In conclusion, the study provides a forward-looking strategy for developing resilient, inclusive, and intelligent renewable energy systems. It highlights that future energy resilience will be built on integrated, regionally informed, and socially inclusive design, with technology, policy, and community engagement combined to drive sustainable energy transitions. Full article
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