Net Zero Buildings

AI for Net Zero Buildings

Reusing existing buildings is one of the best ways to address the global carbon impact of the AECO industry, as it involves 50-75% less carbon than constructing new buildings. But reusing existing buildings can be complex and time consuming, with more challenges and unknowns than new construction.

Autodesk Research is developing two types of AI technology that make it easier and faster to reuse existing buildings.

The first technology involves assessing the building. Our novel AI system explores what’s inside the walls—almost like x-ray vision. The system takes old floor plans, photos, thermal images, and GIS information, and uses this data to predict hidden elements like mechanical systems, the presence of sound insulation, potential damage, and the financial value of the material inventory.

Materials Selection

With materials contributing to more than 25% of the carbon emissions of buildings, initial material selection plays a critical role in meeting these objectives. Autodesk Research is investigating contemporary uses of low-carbon materials including mycelium composite, which are then supported by data-enabled workflows to ensure accurate carbon assessments.

Optimizing carbon decisions is key during the conceptual design phase, where early design choices such as materials can significantly impact the total carbon footprint. Additionally, the research addresses the need for tools that balance carbon goals with other project aspirations, such as cost and human-centric design.

Furthermore, net zero buildings research recognizes the need for carbon removal strategies alongside the elimination of new emissions and seeks to develop tools to model, simulate, visualize, and optimize carbon removal efforts.

Through material selection, construction practices, design trade-offs, and carbon sequestration approaches, Autodesk Research’s comprehensive approach aims to ultimately empower customers to make informed decisions to reach net zero carbon goals, aligning with the ambitious targets set by global governments and industries.