A Path to Alignment in the Built Environment

This document presents a proof of concept (PoC) initiative led by Autodesk, WBCSD, and six major AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) firms. The objective was to explore how Building Information Modelling (BIM) could standardise and streamline whole life carbon (WLC) assessments within the built environment. By analysing various BIM workflows and bill of materials (BOM) outputs across different firms, the study reveals critical challenges and insights.

The findings suggest that current carbon assessment workflows are often inconsistent, with variations in reporting frameworks, data sources, and software configurations. Key areas of improvement include aligning BIM data to carbon reporting standards, enhancing 3D visualisation tools for carbon impact analysis, and adopting global benchmarks for carbon factors.

This initiative highlights the potential of BIM to support more transparent and accurate carbon assessments, thereby aiding the AEC industry’s journey towards decarbonisation.