A BIM Framework That Aligns with Sustainability Goals

By Nidhi DhullReviewed by Susha Cheriyedath, M.Sc.Aug 20 2024

A recent article published in AHFE International proposed developing a unified building information modeling language and culture (UBIML-C) framework aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) index for sustainable construction.

Background

The introduction of BIM was designed to bridge the technological divide between the construction industry and other sectors, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable built environment. However, there is a notable disparity in how BIM technology is applied and adapted across different organizations and countries.

This study focused on addressing key challenges associated with BIM and identifying both technological and cultural requirements to develop the UBIML-C framework. This framework aims to enhance the implementation and adaptation of BIM technology. Additionally, the study proposed aligning UBIML-C with the UN SDGs and the ESG index to ensure a direct return on the investment in UBIML-C.

The ESG index emphasizes the importance of sustainable, social, and ethical operations, management, and governance as key criteria for evaluating the performance and risk management of global companies. These concepts are particularly relevant to the construction industry, which grapples with issues like low productivity and underutilization of advanced technologies.

As the construction industry faces increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices, the UN SDGs can serve as a powerful driver for improving ESG scores. Construction companies need to develop innovative strategies that align with the SDGs—such as creating sustainable cities and communities and promoting responsible consumption and production—to maximize their positive impact on society and the environment.

Methodical Framework

Integrating and aligning BIM methods with the UN SDGs and ESG standards establishes a unified BIM language that adapts to various contexts to ensure effective communication. These contexts can differ widely among organizations and are influenced by factors beyond business operations, such as cultural, religious, social norms, climate, geography, regulations, financial institutions, and corruption.

For instance, in countries with stringent social and religious norms that restrict women from on-site work, enhanced virtual reality and artificial intelligence can offer alternative solutions. In challenging geographies, drones are particularly valuable. Blockchain technology can facilitate financial transactions and oversight in unstable financial environments. Conversely, technologies like cloud computing or digital twins may not be practical in regions with unreliable or restricted communication infrastructure.

The application of the UN SDGs and ESG standards can also influence BIM implementation. While these standards are not mandatory for many reputable, professional, and ethical construction companies, such companies may still adhere to their own cultural and social norms rather than focusing solely on environmental or ethical concerns.

In this framework, conditions represent the context, technologies are the tools, and goals reflect the cultural objectives. Understanding these three elements and effectively communicating goals create a common language among stakeholders in any global project.

The proposed framework includes five categorical conditions, each associated with specific BIM technologies suitable for those conditions. It also maps how these technologies align with the UN SDGs and meet ESG requirements. This approach allows for updates to BIM technologies, UN SDGs, and ESG requirements in response to project delays, maintenance, or changes, ensuring the framework remains relevant and effective.

Discussion

Construction organizations often strive to balance the benefits of BIM adaptation with manageable and affordable costs. As the pressure to adopt BIM more quickly and comprehensively increases, the complexities associated with international projects also grow.

The UBIML-C framework is designed to foster a common understanding and facilitate the adoption of BIM in international projects. However, the global application of generalized assumptions is hindered by various cultural, geographic, administrative, and economic factors. Therefore, both pre-conditions and post-conditions must be carefully considered to effectively create and implement a UBIML-C framework suitable for specific projects and locations.

Pre-Conditions for Implementing UBIML-C:

1. BIM Expertise: Availability of skilled professionals knowledgeable in BIM technology.
2. Regulatory Framework: Compliance with local regulations and standards.
3. Client Maturity: Acceptance of the time, effort, and cost required for BIM-based project development.
4. Incentives for UN SDGs: Encouragement to align with the UN SDGs.
5. ESG Reporting Requirements: Adherence to ESG reporting standards.

Post-Conditions for Utilizing UBIML-C:

1. Local and Global Reputation: Gaining recognition and credibility locally, regionally, and internationally can promote the UBIML-C framework.
2. Promotion and Dissemination: Actively publicizing the successful application of UBIML-C can lead to its adoption in other projects.
3. Transition to BIM: As the general perception of BIM benefits grows, it may eventually replace the need for the UBIML-C framework when BIM’s advantages are widely recognized without specific UN SDG or ESG incentives.

By addressing these conditions, organizations can effectively implement the UBIML-C framework and support the broader adoption of BIM, ultimately advancing the construction industry’s capabilities and alignment with sustainability goals.

Conclusion and Future Prospects

Overall, the researchers emphasized the importance of defining the parameters necessary to establish the UBIML-C framework, the need for such a unified language, and the foundational structure of the proposed framework. The initial version of the UBIML-C concept provides a basis for introducing BIM across diverse global projects.

However, the practical application of this study is limited because the proposed UBIML-C framework has not yet been tested under various conditions. To address this, the researchers plan to develop a prototype that will generate a UBIML-C tailored to specific cases. This prototype will utilize an expert system-type methodology, as outlined in the study, to explain and refine the outputs generated for different project scenarios.

Journal Reference

Markopoulos, E. et al. (2024). Using the UN SDGs and the ESG Index towards the development of a Unified Building Information Modelling Language and Culture for Sustainable Construction. AHFE International. DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005269, https://openaccess.cms-conferences.org/publications/book/978-1-964867-25-0/article/978-1-964867-25-0_0

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