Abstract
Building rating systems lack a methodology for assessing building’s potential for becoming self-sufficient by using local resources. There is a gap in the literature for linking natural capital assessment and net-zero buildings. This paper presents a methodology for assessment of natural capital to achieve net-zero targets in buildings. The developed methodology is demonstrated through a Living Building Challenge® registered building. The contribution of water, energy and building materials is discussed, and various scenarios are evaluated on how the building can become net-zero over its life cycle by using local natural resources. Results show that the building can generate 100% of its energy and 92% of its water on-site and can become net-zero with the help of materials recycling and off-site carbon offset program.
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Notes
Betz's law calculates the maximum power that can be extracted from the wind, independent of the design of a wind turbine in open flow (Betz 1966).
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Acknowledgements
We would like to thank Okanagan College for providing the building data and NSERC for the financial support from the Alexander Graham Bell Canada Graduate Scholarship (CGS-D).
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Hossaini, N., Hewage, K. & Sadiq, R. Path toward net-zero buildings: a natural capital assessment framework. Clean Techn Environ Policy 20, 201–218 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10098-017-1469-z
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10098-017-1469-z