Davidenko, Sabrina

Diploma Thesis:
2007

Topic:
Life cycle assessment and life cycle analysis of existing buildings compared to new builds

Editor:
Sabrina Davidenko

University Professor Responsible:
Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Dipl.-Wirt.-Ing. Katharina Kleinschrot

Supervisor:
University Supervisor: Dipl.-Ing. Aline Gruner

Editing Period:
10.07.2024 until 10.03.2025

Abstract:
In this thesis, the life cycle assessment of existing and new buildings is examined comparatively in order to identify methodological differences, challenges and optimization potential. The focus is on the analysis of existing standards, guidelines and assessment approaches in the construction industry as well as on the quantification of environmental impacts over the entire life cycle. As part of this study, the life cycle assessment of an existing building and a new building was carried out. For this purpose, the global warming potential and the non-renewable primary energy demand were determined and compared as key indicators. The results show that the greatest environmental impact occurs during the production phase, particularly due to energy-intensive building materials such as concrete and steel. The work makes it clear that the life cycle assessment of new buildings can be carried out more precisely using a standardized methodology and early involvement in the planning process, while there are uncertainties in the data basis for existing buildings.