Experience in the field of Sustainability Enhanced Construction Classification System

Abstract

Currently, due to the increasing complexity of new buildings and the urgency to promote their economic sustainability, the Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Operation (AECO) sector faces the challenge of managing all the necessary information to fulfil its basic requirements. For this information management (e.g. control, organization, structuring, storage), the importance of using standardized construction information classification systems (CICS) is emphasized. In parallel, the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) methodology is increasingly essential. In addition, there is a global challenge to rationalize the use of natural resources in line with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals. As the AECO sector is one of the most demanding in terms of the use of these resources, there is an urgent need to develop production models that involve the sharing, reuse, repair, renovation and recycling of existing materials and products, thus extending their life cycle. The Sustainability Enhanced Construction Classification System (SECClasS) Project presents a solution that unifies these challenges. It proposes to develop and implement a CICS optimized for sustainability, based on the principles of Circular Economy, aiming to reduce construction and demolition waste (CDW), through the use of digital tools that help and promote the careful selection and management of products with less environmental impact. This paper describes the assumptions for the development of a Portuguese CICS (in accordance with SECClasS Project), that adapts classification systems already established at an international level, such as: (i) UniClass2015 (United Kingdom); (ii) OmniClass (North America); (iii) CCS (Denmark); (iv) CoClass (Sweden); and (v) CCI (Estonia, Czech Republic, Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Finland). International standards, such as ISO 12006 and ISO 81346, as well as the Action Plan for the Circular Economy defined by the European Union in 2020 are also analysed. This research work aims to obtain a CICS that streamline decision-making processes in AECO sector, reducing negative environment impacts and promoting sustainability.