IN-PERSON London. Section B

Abstract

In response to the escalating climate emergency, with the built environment contributing substantially to annual global carbon emissions, there is a critical need for innovative carbon footprint management strategies. Conventional methods often focus on environmental performance alone, neglecting the synergistic relationship between social and environmental factors. This study explores the application of a digital twin-enabled approach, utilising real-time data to provide a comprehensive evaluation and visualisation of both social and environmental building performance. This research presents a framework for developing a digital twin-enabled tool. The paper discusses underlying technology, such as Internet-Of-Things, Big Data availability and incorporation, and methods of data visualisation. To demonstrate the applicability of the tool, a digital twin prototype is developed and tested to visualise building performance using a case study of Mixed-Use Urban Housing in Australia. This study addresses challenges in modern Post-Occupancy Evaluation, such as limited scope and focus, insufficient data collection and analysis, and lack of longitudinal studies, by investigating a digital twin-enabled approach for building performance evaluation. By integrating diverse occupant-centric and environmental assessment methods, it advances a more holistic and dynamic understanding of building performance, encompassing a range of aspects such as the carbon footprint of a building, underscoring the role end-users play in social and environmental sustainability.