DefinePK

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the environmental impacts associated with green buildings through the lens of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). Green buildings, designed to minimize ecological footprints, have gained significant traction as a sustainable solution to the environmental challenges posed by traditional construction practices. The research explores the full life cycle of green buildings—from the extraction of raw materials and construction processes to the operational phase and eventual demolition. By applying LCA methodologies, the study assesses various environmental indicators, including energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, and waste generation. The findings indicate that while green buildings offer substantial reductions in operational energy use and carbon emissions, the environmental benefits can be offset by the impacts during the construction phase, particularly in material production and transportation. Additionally, the study highlights the critical role of sustainable material selection and advanced construction techniques in achieving the intended environmental benefits. The research also underscores the importance of considering the entire life cycle of a building, rather than focusing solely on the operational phase, to accurately evaluate its environmental performance. The analysis contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable construction by providing actionable insights for architects, builders, policymakers, and stakeholders in the building industry. These insights can guide the development of more effective strategies for reducing the environmental impacts of buildings across their entire life cycle. Furthermore, the study identifies areas for future research, including the integration of renewable energy systems, the impact of building design on resource efficiency, and the role of circular economy principles in construction. Ultimately, this research advocates for a holistic approach to green building design, one that fully accounts for environmental impacts throughout the building’s life span, ensuring that the pursuit of sustainability in the built environment is both effective and truly comprehensive.
Keywords:  Life Cycle, Green Buildings, Environmental Impacts, Analysis, Assessment.