The convergence of life cycle assessment and nearly zero-energy buildings: The case of Germany

- Life cycle assessment (LCA) had existed since the 1970s, it is now performable.
- Since 1977, energy building standards have been developing continuously.
- Improving buildings by life cycle optimization is the indispensable next step.
- Presently very little consideration of LCA of buildings in the German context.
- Further research on applicable LCA of nearly zero-energy buildings is necessary.