Carbon emission measurement of the envelope of a university teaching building in Hefei City

Abstract

Abstract In response to the challenges posed by global warming, China has formulated dual carbon goals. In this context, the construction industry, a key carbon emitter, is vital for implementing energy-saving and emission-reducing strategies. This study zeroes in on the pivotal role of building envelope structures in carbon emissions, with a focus on a university building in Hefei. Commencing with onsite measurements to gather initial data, the study leverages simulation software to conduct an in-depth analysis. Employing orthogonal experimental design and variance analysis, it meticulously assesses the carbon emissions associated with different materials used in exterior walls, roofs and windows, considering both the material production and building operation phases. The research scrutinizes the impact of these materials on carbon emissions, with a special focus on the performance of seven distinct building retrofit schemes. Key findings of the study underscore that the type and thickness of exterior wall materials substantially influence carbon emissions during the production phase. Conversely, the choice of window materials emerges as more critical in reducing emissions during the building operation phase. The implementation of the various retrofit schemes demonstrates a tangible reduction in overall building carbon emissions. Specifically, these schemes yield a yearly reduction in carbon emissions of 2.96–3.62 tons during operation and a substantial decrease of 30.36–165.97 tons in the production phase, compared to the original structure of the case study building. These insights not only offer practical and viable strategies for the construction industry’s low-carbon development but also provide theoretical underpinnings and references for future building designs and retrofits.