BIM Use: Sustainability Evaluation
Sustainability Evaluation Sustainability (LEED)

A process in which a BIM project is evaluated based on LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or other sustainable criteria (e.g., EEWH in Taiwan).

This process should occur during all stages of a facility's life including planning, design, construction, and operation. Applying sustainable features in the **planning and early design phases** is most effective (highest ability to impact design) and efficient (lowest cost of change).

Integration Note: This requires early contractual integration. Beyond goals, the process adds calculations and documentation. Energy simulations should be performed in an integrative environment with clearly defined responsibilities.
Potential Value:
  • Facilitates early interaction, collaboration, and coordination of team members.
  • Enables early and reliable evaluation of design alternatives (e.g., orientation, facade performance).
  • Availability of critical information early helps resolve cost premiums and schedule conflicts efficiently.
  • Shortens the actual design process by facilitating early decisions.
  • Reduces documentation load; concurrently prepared calculations accelerate certification.
  • Reduces operational costs via improved energy management.
  • Increases emphasis on environmentally friendly design.
  • Assists project team with potential future revisions throughout the lifecycle.
  • Delivers better overall project quality.
Resources Required:
  • Design Authoring Software (e.g., Revit)
  • Sustainability Analysis Tools (e.g., Insight, Tally)
  • LEED/EEWH Credit Tracking Templates
  • Material Databases (EPD info)
Team Competencies:
  • Ability to create and review 3D Models for data extraction.
  • Knowledge of up-to-date LEED/EEWH Credit Information.
  • Ability to organize and manage the material database.
  • Understanding of Lifecycle Assessment (LCA) workflows.