Japanese architectural firm Nikken Sekkei has developed a tool that can easily estimate an amount of greenhouse gas emissions resulting from construction, and has begun full-scale operation for design work. The tool enables simultaneous simulation of construction-related GHG emissions and construction costs in the early planning stages. The tool can also be used to improve the accuracy of design while confirming the GHG emissions that can be reduced.

The digital tool can be used in the basic planning and basic design stages to perform simulations including costs. If the details have not yet been determined, construction-related GHG emissions can be calculated from a hypothetical design. The accuracy can be improved step by step by adding detailed and additional information.

For both architecture and utilities, a detailed breakdown can be output by multiplying the quantity by the unit cost. It is also possible to estimate the amount of emission based on differences in building shape, seismic resistance, and environmental performance. Detailed item analysis can also be performed, allowing the user to determine which parts of the building have the greatest impact on costs and GHG emissions. (2022/11/08)