A Conceptual Framework for the Use of AI and Digital Twins for Enabling Dynamic Building Codes in Smart Sustainable Cities for Climate Change Adaptation

Building codes are fundamental to ensuring health, safety, and construction standards in urban development. This study explores the enhancement of the building licensing process through the introduction of dynamic building codes, enabled by an adaptive digital technology framework. By leveraging innovations such as Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, and integrated digital twins, the framework enables real-time monitoring and updating of building codes to address the complexities of modern urban environments and support climate change adaptation in smart, sustainable cities. The conceptual framework is demonstrated through a hypothetical validation in Lusail, Qatar, a state-of-the-art smart city. Key challenges identified include data interoperability, information security risks, and resistance to regulatory change. The findings suggest that emerging technologies can significantly improve sustainability compliance and climate adaptation. The study concludes by proposing a research roadmap to address current gaps in digital sustainability tracking and to advance the implementation of dynamic building codes for more resilient urban environments.