Data-driven architecture towards net zero
“Looking at other industries, it is quite striking the building sector continuous to build one off projects. With so much data available, and new technologies at hand, we can make the big step that is needed in a very short timeframe.” – Sander Schuur, co-founder and CPO at Homr
In a few days, COP26, the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties, will kick off in Glasgow. At the conference, world leaders will discuss how to secure global net zero by midcentury.
Buildings generate nearly 40% of the annual global CO2 emissions, with building operations being responsible for close to 30%, while building materials and construction clock in just over 10%. Considering the expected doubling of the global building floor area by 2060, you get the idea of the potential the sector has in securing global net zero. This is no news.
With HOMR, we believe the key to reach the goal of a 50% emission reduction by 2030 followed by another 50% in the next decade and once more 50% before 2050, is a data-driven and incremental approach within real estate development and the housing sector.
We start with what is accessible right here right now, the first step of data-driven approach is to ensure for the design to be more accurate and closer to the final product. Secondly, with a data-driven approach, the construction time can be reduced by up to 20%. Thirdly, material can be used more efficiently by about 10% to 20%, reducing construction waste that now equals three times the amount of all household waste in Sweden.
Based on data, rather than experience, design will be more informed incrementally while being performance proven. In future phases, analyses and feedback from built projects can inform the next iteration to continuously improve housing products.
Only a data-driven approach, the opposite of starting from scratch in every project, will enable us to continuously develop the housing sector to reach the goals that will be set at COP26.
Sander Schuur