How AI, digital twins, & data accelerate sustainable infrastructure

This article draws on insights from Rodrigo Fernandez, Director, ES(D)G at Bentley Systems, and Johanna Jarvinen, Embodied Carbon Expert at One Click LCA. They explored how Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital twins, and data-driven solutions are crucial for future-proofing infrastructure and achieving sustainability. The discussion emphasized changing behaviors, adopting sustainability principles, and leveraging advanced technologies. Collaboration between policymakers and industry leaders, supported by comprehensive LCAs, is essential to building a sustainable and technologically advanced infrastructure for the future.

Primary challenges and barriers in infrastructure decarbonization

Rodrigo highlighted the primary challenges organizations face in decarbonizing large and complex infrastructure projects. These challenges include diverse stakeholders, complex supply chains, and data silos. Infrastructure projects often deal with long-lived assets, requiring consideration of all lifecycle stages to ensure sustainability. Additionally, the talent gap in engineering further complicates the execution of these projects. As we invest more in green infrastructure, the pressure on engineering firms increases, necessitating continuous efforts to address these challenges.

According to Johanna the volume of information needed for infrastructure projects is substantial. Handling carbon calculations, costing, and other metrics is time-consuming and complex. Regulatory and policy changes further complicate project timelines and targets. The importance of starting decarbonization efforts early in the project lifecycle was emphasized, with continuous improvement as a key strategy.

Empowering companies through digital twins and partnerships

Digital twins and partnerships, such as those between Bentley Systems and One Click LCA, play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions and achieving sustainability goals. Johanna explained that automation in carbon calculation is essential for scaling these efforts to have a measurable impact on climate change. Digital tools enhance predictability in project delivery, allowing for better time management, cost control, and carbon reduction.

Rodrigo elaborated on the collaborative and open approach promoted by Bentley Systems. By integrating digital twin technology and leveraging partnerships with carbon calculation experts like One Click LCA, companies can achieve more efficient data federation, transparency, and collaboration. This integration allows for more accurate and advanced carbon analysis, accelerating the carbon reduction process.

The role of AI and digital twins in driving sustainability

Digital twins integrate various inputs into digital simulations, facilitating a comprehensive representation of infrastructure assets. Rodrigo highlighted that AI and data-driven solutions enable clear design, efficient construction, and reliable maintenance, supporting better decision-making throughout the lifecycle of infrastructure projects.

Real-world examples, such as the ITER nuclear fusion project and the EchoWater wastewater treatment plant, demonstrate how digital twins and AI can de-risk project execution, optimize resource usage, and improve sustainability. Automation in material selection and carbon reporting further supports sustainable infrastructure development.

The importance of LCA in early design stages

Johanna stressed the significance of conducting LCA from the early design stages. LCA helps guide design decisions by providing a comprehensive view of both immediate and long-term carbon impacts. This approach ensures that design options are evaluated for their sustainability, enabling more informed decision-making.

Rodrigo added that LCA should also be considered during the planning stage. Repurposing existing infrastructure and maximizing asset operation are crucial strategies for sustainability. Early LCA helps designers make balanced decisions that consider both embodied and operational carbon, ultimately leading to more sustainable infrastructure.

Collaboration between policymakers and industry leaders

Effective collaboration between policymakers and industry leaders is essential to ensure sustainable and technologically advanced infrastructure. Rodrigo emphasized that public and private investments should prioritize sustainable practices, mandating the adoption of green certifications and standards. Education and awareness are key to increasing carbon literacy and promoting better decision-making.

Open and interoperable data standards are critical to avoid vendor lock-in and ensure long-term sustainability. Policymakers should promote these standards to facilitate collaboration and accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices.

Johanna added that ambitious targets and consistent policies are necessary to drive industry-wide change. While industry leaders often lead the way in sustainability, standardized regulations ensure that all stakeholders are aligned towards common goals.

Summary

In summary, the integration of AI, digital twins, and data-driven solutions is crucial for future-proofing infrastructure and achieving sustainability. Changing behaviors, adopting sustainability principles, and leveraging advanced technologies will drive the transition towards a sustainable and resilient infrastructure landscape. Collaboration between policymakers and industry leaders, supported by comprehensive LCAs, will ensure that the infrastructure of tomorrow is built on a sustainable and technologically advanced foundation.

One Click LCA helps you design low-carbon infrastructure

One Click LCA is the world’s leading end-to-end sustainability software platform for construction and related manufacturing — with easy-to-use, automated life-cycle assessment and environmental product declaration solutions, among others. With One Click LCA's Infrastructure LCA Tool, AEC professionals can deliver low-carbon infrastructure projects and comply with PAS 2080 or BREEAM Infrastructure LCA. You can also get certified for compliance with ISO and EN general and construction-specific LCA standards.