Driving circularity with Total BIM: An integrated approach to data-driven design

Paper in proceeding, 2023

Despite the significant environmental impacts of the construction industry, the sector lacks practical decision-making tools to increase material reuse. Building Information Modelling (BIM) can address this by facilitating data-driven decision-making. Total BIM, a growing trend in the Nordic region, implements model-based design and construction with a single source of information. This research presents a case study of a Total BIM office renovation project, where innovative BIM and digitalisation processes were implemented to increase material reuse. These processes enabled proactive, data-driven decision-making, minimising CO2 emissions. The building's concrete structure was preserved, and various components such as plasterboards, radiators, ceiling panels, doors were all reused and evaluated for CO2 emissions. The Total BIM approach was enhanced by attaching material reuse data to objects to reduce waste. The data draws on interviews, workshops and a study visit from a unique case study project in Sweden. Findings highlight how tougher emissions regulations could be the tipping point for pushing BIM implementation in projects as we think about constructing for the future.