Deployment Of Advanced ICT To Achieve Net Zero

Abstract

This research investigates how advanced Information and Communication Technology (ICT) can contribute to achieving net-zero carbon emissions throughout the construction process's life cycle. Utilizing a quantitative approach, the study employed a questionnaire to evaluate the role of ICT utilisation in reducing carbon emissions across the various construction phases. The survey, distributed via email and industry-related online platforms, gathered data from 45 participants, including engineers, project managers, and architects. The results indicated that Building Information Modelling (BIM) was the most widely used ICT tool, adopted by 77.78% of participants, with Virtual Reality (VR) and Computer Vision (CV) also prominently featured. Notably, drones and VR were extensively used during the construction phase, while Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) saw increased usage in the post-construction phase. An overwhelming 88% of participants perceived the impact of these tools on sustainability as either strong or moderate. The study concludes that deploying advanced ICT tools such as VR, AR, and AI significantly enhances time savings, quality, safety, and overall project performance, contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions. BIM, in particular, emerged as the most extensively used tool, supported by technologies like VR and drones. The research highlights the vital role of ICT in advancing sustainability and achieving net-zero targets in the construction industry, while also acknowledging the need to address challenges associated with emerging technologies like WSNs.