Development of a systematic model for an assessment tool for sustainable buildings based on a structural framework

•The study examined the definitions of sustainable architecture.•The study compared and analyzed the sustainable architecture assessment tools.•Based on comparative analysis, the framework of assessment tool was established.•The framework comprised three modules; input/assessment/output module.•The algorithm and data flow are constructed based on systematic module compositions.

There has been much progress in recent years in the development of sustainable building assessment tools as a means to promote sustainable buildings. However, many assessment tools face issues with assessment methods and system frameworks, which greatly undermine their credibility and applicability. If these problems persist, the role of sustainable building assessment tools as decision making aids during the design stage will be greatly limited. The objective of this study is to suggest a systematic model for sustainable building assessment tools by establishing a logical performance assessment framework. For this purpose, analysis of performance assessment tools for sustainable buildings was conducted using the EIA framework. Based on the results of the analysis, a framework for the performance assessment of sustainable buildings was established. According to the structural framework, a sustainable building assessment model was developed.

Graphical abstractThe objective of the study is to develop a systematic model for sustainable building assessment tools by establishing a logical system of performance assessment framework. The proposed model is expected to provide basic references in developing computer programs for sustainable building assessment. The model will also facilitate a rational decision making for the realization of sustainable building during design stage.For this purpose,(1)the study examined the definitions and theories of sustainable architecture, and investigated the present practices of sustainable buildings.(2)The study also analyzed the characteristics of currently available sustainable building assessment tools.(3)Based on the analysis results, framework of sustainable building assessment system was established comprising three modules; input module, assessment module, and output module.(4)And the algorithm of systematic model for sustainable building assessment tool was established by synthesizing the data generating methods within each module and the flow of data between modules. Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide