The Net Zero - Emission Target And Risks Of Climate Change: The Global Comparative Assessment Of Carbon Footprints

Abstract

The focus of this research is on improving an existing commercial building’s energy efficiency and addressing the issues of energy generation and use as whole, specifically as it relates to the non-renewable aspect of fossil fuels and the increasing changes in the atmosphere and oceans from greenhouse gas emissions. The case study in this paper analyzes the building carbon footprint, determines possible envelope improvements to reduce operational energy usages, and explores possible renewable energy resources that can be implemented on site to meet the various building energy needs. Significant review of literature into energy generation, alternative energy sources, and the specific building envelope properties and mechanical systems was required. The theoretical analysis includes details on heating and cooling loads, solar angles and irradiation, and wind turbine potential. This main purpose of this research was to provide a framework for future building renovations at this site or be a model for other existing building looking to transition to a more sustainable infrastructure.