Climate-Resilient Building Construction Using Low-Carbon Structural Materials

Abstract

The drive to address climate change has grown the urgency of building methods that generate less greenhouse gas emissions and are more resilient to global changes. This paper explores the construction of climate-resilient buildings using low carbon structural materials, highlighting their environmental impact, structural strength, cost-effectiveness, and resilience to climate challenges. It takes into account resources including low-carbon concrete, recycled steel, engineered timber and supplementary cementitious materials, and considers their potential for reducing embodied carbon without compromising structural safety and the long-term performance of the structure. A comparative, literature-based method is used to assess material properties, life cycle carbon emissions, construction costs, and hazard resistance to flooding, extreme heat, heavy rainfall, and high winds. It also explores the integration of the elements of Climate Responsive Architecture, LCA, Digital Prototyping and Sustainable Finance in building development. Based on the research on sustainable materials, climate adapted infrastructure, and low carbon built environment, the study suggests an integrated framework for the selection of structural materials and design strategies based on carbon intensity, durability, hazard exposure, and life cycle costs. The study highlights the need for coordinated building policies, relevant material standards, build capacity of the industry and investment in sustainable construction technologies to reach the greater potential for effective implementation. In conclusion, the use of low-carbon materials in combination with a climate-resilient design approach can help to create more sustainable, safer, and resource-efficient buildings, as well as support long-term climate mitigation and adaptation goals.