Material selection optimization model for green buildings

Abstract

Buildings deplete natural resources and pollute the environment. They are responsible for a large portion of harmful emissions and use notable amount of energy. Green building philosophy has evolved due to the immense impacts of conventional buildings. The green building movement intends to reduce these effects and form sustainable buildings. In this context, it is essential to assess environmental burdens of building materials in order to encourage decision-makers for selecting environmental-friendly materials. Recently, material selection process turns out to be an integral approach considering technical, environmental and economical aspects. Therefore, computer-based models are required to treat these multi-criteria problems. This study proposes a mathematical model in order to help decision-makers with the selection of proper materials in order to increase performance of green buildings. The integer programming optimization model tries to minimize the environmental impact of a building in a life cycle perspective based on candidate materials along with economic and additional environmental considerations. Economic factors are based on market prices. Moreover, environmental parameters cover recycled content ratio and availability of regional materials. The mathematical model is applied to a single storey building in order to analyze its effectiveness. Sensitivity analysis is performed in order to observe possible variations in decision-makers preferences. This thesis is distinctive from the previous studies. It determines a realistic approach between materials‘ cost and environmental features and enhances forming an entire environmental-friendly building. This study does not cover the environmental impacts result from occupancy phase of buildings.