Visualizing greenhouse gas emissions from construction activities using geo-spatial information systems

Hajibabai, L; Aziz, ZUH; Pen˜a-Mora, F

Abstract

Purpose – Construction activities, particularly related to transportation, have a considerable impact
on the environment and air quality. This paper aims to present a geographic information systems
(GIS) and computer-aided design (CAD)-based approach for visualizing, communicating and analysing
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions resulting from construction activities.
Design/methodology/approach – A methodology using GIS is developed to graphically represent
spatial aspects of construction. The approach adopted involves use of a 3D model developed in CAD
environment, which was synchronized with a construction schedule stored in Excel spreadsheets. GIS
environment is used to link spatial and scheduling information relevant to GHG emissions from
construction activities. Abaseline was created to enable effective monitoring of construction emissions.
Findings – The presented GIS model has the potential to enhance visualisation of distribution and
dynamic variations of GHG emissions and could help stakeholders better analyse and understand how
construction activities impact the environment.
Originality/value – This paper presents a novel method of graphically presenting GHG and other
hazardous air emissions from construction activities using a GIS-based approach. The paper presents
the result of comparing the 3D surface representation of simulated estimated and actual construction
emissions to show the impact of construction activities on the environment to support the engineering
analysis and decision-making process.

Citation

Hajibabai, L., Aziz, Z., & Pen˜a-Mora, F. (2011). Visualizing greenhouse gas emissions from construction activities using geo-spatial information systems. Construction innovation (London. Online), 11(3), 356-370. https://doi.org/10.1108/14714171111149052

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2011
• Deposit Date: Aug 13, 2012
• Journal: Construction Innovation
• Print ISSN: 1471-4175
• Publisher: Emerald
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 11
• Issue: 3
• Pages: 356-370
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/14714171111149052
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/14714171111149052