BIM, a step towards a more sustainable future

BIM, a step towards a more sustainable future
The term ‘sustainable’ is not a novel concept. It has been a buzzword for over a decade. However, the alarming rate of changes on the environmental front, have increased our awareness towards sustainability in every aspect of our lives right from farming to manufacturing to building construction. 

Sustainability in construction is the need of the hour because the construction industry is one of the major deterrents of the environment. As per a report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), 39% of carbon dioxide emissions globally are caused due to the construction sector. In the coming years, increasing growth of the construction sector will only accelerate such impact. 

However, sustainability is not just about installing solar panels or energy-efficient lighting systems. It’s about emphasizing on various aspects during the design and construction phase whilst also keeping in mind the post-construction asset operation and maintenance. Assessment methods such as LEEDS define the steps to be taken for a green building. Though these measures need to be implemented right from the design stage. A 2D-software will only enable energy analysis at the end of the design stage which restrains the improvement of energy efficiency. In such a scenario, Building Information Modeling (BIM) is the right tool for designing green buildings. BIM’s detailed information analysis through digitization can aid in the right implementation of sustainable strategies. 

Let’s dive deeper into how BIM can help in taking steps towards a more sustainable future. 
 

Real-time information exchange

BIM’s 3D shared model provides information access to all stakeholders involved in the project. Designers, architects, engineers and other project members can discuss sustainability of materials and products being used in the construction. These ideas exchanged during the design stage can help in facilitating functional yet environment-friendly solutions.  

 
Early clash detection 

With the real-time information model of BIM, workflows can be reviewed at every stage of construction. The timely workflow review along with the simulation of each construction phase ensures faster clash detection and helps foresee human errors that could lead to rework and wastage of resources. Early clash detection also helps create safer working conditions for on-site builders.  

 
Resource and cost mobilization

BIM for construction also ensures better planning of material procurement and its utilization. Materials can be procured as per the requirement and not in excess, thus avoiding wastage. Optimum use of resources and reduced wastage, in turn, reduce the carbon footprint of the construction project. Naturally, such measures also invariably lead to saving costs. 

 
Improved operation and maintenance

BIM plays a crucial role in facility management. The real-time information transfer from the construction phase to the post-construction phase eases operation and maintenance for asset owners. Facility managers can have access to the design changes that were done during the construction phase. This information helps the project managers schedule asset repair and replacement and work towards increasing energy efficiency of the asset.

 
To sum it up, BIM adoption is happening at a rapid rate in the AEC industry across the world. Now, we need to maximize the potential of this 3D model to design green buildings. The Benifits of BIM such as enhanced collaboration, information transparency, better project planning, improved clash detection and optimum resource utilization can help us reduce construction waste and carbon emissions. This is the time to increase BIM Implementation for our construction projects to get closer to a sustainable future.