Article: Utility-driven simulation modelling and multi-objective evolutionary optimisation for BIM-based construction emission reduction Journal: International Journal of Information and Communication Technology (IJICT) 2026 Vol.27 No.61 pp.97 - 117 Abstract: This research tackles the dynamic optimisation of construction carbon emissions by proposing a novel integration of building information modelling, utility-driven simulation, and multi-objective evolutionary computation. A core methodological contribution is a formalised utility function that quantifies and embeds project-specific decision-maker preferences for time, cost, and emissions directly into the optimisation search process. This function guides a bespoke evolutionary algorithm to automatically generate efficient, low-carbon construction plans, which are accurately evaluated by a high-fidelity discrete-event simulation engine using enriched building information modelling data. In an experimental study based on a publicly available office building dataset, our framework demonstrates superior performance, outperforming state-of-the-art benchmarks with a 5.6%-15.3% gain in hypervolume and achieving an 18.7% reduction in on-site emissions. This work provides a rigorous and actionable decision-support system for advancing sustainable construction practices. Inderscience Publishers - linking academia, business and industry through research

Title: Utility-driven simulation modelling and multi-objective evolutionary optimisation for BIM-based construction emission reduction

Authors: Ling Yuan

Addresses: Department of Transportation Engineering, Fujian Forestry Vocational and Technical College, Yanping, 353000, China

Abstract: This research tackles the dynamic optimisation of construction carbon emissions by proposing a novel integration of building information modelling, utility-driven simulation, and multi-objective evolutionary computation. A core methodological contribution is a formalised utility function that quantifies and embeds project-specific decision-maker preferences for time, cost, and emissions directly into the optimisation search process. This function guides a bespoke evolutionary algorithm to automatically generate efficient, low-carbon construction plans, which are accurately evaluated by a high-fidelity discrete-event simulation engine using enriched building information modelling data. In an experimental study based on a publicly available office building dataset, our framework demonstrates superior performance, outperforming state-of-the-art benchmarks with a 5.6%-15.3% gain in hypervolume and achieving an 18.7% reduction in on-site emissions. This work provides a rigorous and actionable decision-support system for advancing sustainable construction practices.

Keywords: building information modelling; BIM; construction carbon emission; multi-objective optimisation; utility function; discrete-event simulation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJICT.2026.153939

International Journal of Information and Communication Technology, 2026 Vol.27 No.61, pp.97 - 117

Received: 04 Feb 2026
Accepted: 06 Mar 2026
Published online: 08 Jun 2026 *

Title: Utility-driven simulation modelling and multi-objective evolutionary optimisation for BIM-based construction emission reduction

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