ABSTRACT
The construction industry, especially tunnelling projects, significantly impacts the environment, with the planning and design phase offering key mitigation opportunities. This study introduces a framework for dynamically assessing the carbon footprint of tunnelling projects by integrating Building Information Modelling (BIM) with Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). An artificial tunnel is selected as a case study. To conduct LCA, BIM provided real-time data on quantities, while a database of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) helped to evaluate environmental impacts. The LCA findings highlighted high carbon footprint contributors, including concrete C12/15, jet grouting, and C28/35. Simulating material selection scenarios, the study found carbon footprint changes of over 40% reduction or around 25% increase, depending on material choices. Also, LCA findings are fed back into the BIM model to guide sustainable design decisions. This BIM-LCA framework enables data-driven decisions, reducing the project’s carbon footprint and supporting sustainable design.
