This project will structurally improve the sustainability of construction sites by optimizing energy management, leading to lower costs, reduced CO₂-emissions, and more efficient use of resources.
Problem Definition
The transition to a sustainable and circular construction sector is hampered by an often-overlooked but crucial component: the construction site itself. While buildings are increasingly being designed to be more energy-efficient, temporary site installations—such as lighting, heating, cooling, and machinery—continue to create a significant ecological footprint. In some cases, energy consumption on construction sites accounts for up to 20% of a construction project's total CO₂-emissions, yet this is rarely incorporated into sustainability strategies or measurements.
There is a clear need for validated methodologies, practical tools, and shared guidelines to reduce this impact. Construction companies and other stakeholders are signaling their desire to become more sustainable, but currently, concrete tools and a sector-wide approach are lacking. This project addresses this gap by developing solutions that are supported by the field and tested in realistic contexts.
Research Questions
- How can we design construction sites to optimize energy consumption?
- How can we organize the energy design of construction sites more sustainably and circularly?
- Which best practices are already available internationally and applicable in the Belgian/Flemish construction sector?
- What impact does an energy-sustainably designed construction site have on the CO₂-footprint of a construction project?
- What impact does an energy-sustainably designed construction site have on the costs of a construction project?
Research Methodology
The project follows the Design Science Research method, which applies iterative design cycles. First, the problem is explored in depth through literature research and discussions with stakeholders from the construction sector. Prototypes are then developed in co-creation with the field.
These tools will be tested on at least three construction sites, after which they will be evaluated through quantitative measurements and qualitative feedback. Success factors and contextual variables will be identified through cross-case analyses. Finally, the insights will be integrated and widely disseminated through training courses, an online platform, and a closing conference, with the aim of achieving sustainable impact and sector-wide application.
Expected results
- Checklist and practical guide for sustainable and circular construction site design
- Toolkit with practical tools for contractors and construction companies
- Report with at least three case studies including impact analysis and quantitative and financial analysis of achieved sustainability impact
- Best practice guide
- CO₂-reduction calculator to measure impact
- Knowledge dissemination through workshop series and online dissemination