BIM and building process sustainability: A comparison between renovation and reconstruction alternatives related to embodied carbon.

This study explores the integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in heritage conservation to assess the sustainability of renovation versus reconstruction. Using Palazzo Gulinelli and Palazzo Guiccioli as case studies, the research evaluates embodied carbon, material efficiency, and energy performance. BIM analysis of Palazzo Gulinelli demonstrated that material reuse and retrofitting strategies significantly reduced embodied carbon and operational energy consumption by 30%. Meanwhile, LCA findings from Palazzo Guiccioli highlighted the environmental impact of material production and periodic replacements, reinforcing the benefits of renovation in minimizing long-term carbon emissions. Despite these advantages, challenges such as regulatory constraints, data limitations, and higher initial costs remain. The study underscores the importance of integrating BIM and LCA in decision-making for sustainable heritage conservation, advocating for improved material databases, flexible conservation policies, and financial incentives to encourage sustainable restoration practices