Integrated Modeling Approach for Developing Sustainable Buildings: A State of the Art

The construction industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors and is gaining the huge attention of policymakers. The main reason for this attention is the rapid increase in energy demands due to urbanization and increasing salaries. It is consuming approximately 40% of the global energy, at the cost of equivalent carbon emissions. These consumptions are unavoidable and are growing significantly, thus posing higher risks for climate change. However, timely taken preventive measures can reduce these risks and the energy requirement substantially. Sustainable development is one of the projected solutions which involve meeting both energy and environmental demands without impacting the needs of the future generation. However, it involves a number of parameters like improved indoor air quality, adequate daylight, selection of material, etc. Monitoring such a complex system requires an efficient delivery process. The present manuscript is an attempt to review the integrated modeling approach for developing sustainable buildings. The focus of the study is on discussing the strategies for improving dwelling conditions with minimal ramifications on energy requirements. The study intends to bring light to the various complications faced by stakeholders in selecting an appropriate technique.