Modeling of CO₂ emissions via optimum insulation thickness of residential buildings

The present study aims to determine and model CO₂ emissions based on the energy savings through the thermal insulation applied to the external walls of the buildings for eighty-one different zones using four diverse thermal insulation materials. Depending on the by life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) and the number of degree-days, optimum insulation thicknesses were determined in the present study, in which the heating and cooling needs of the buildings were considered separately. The net savings associated with insulated buildings were also calculated, including the optimum insulation thickness and the payback period for the insulation applied. In buildings with thermal insulation, it has been determined that CO₂ emissions will be reduced by approximately 66–76% during the heating season and by 46–69% during the cooling season. Moreover, the amount of CO₂ emissions released into the atmosphere from uninsulated and insulated buildings was modeled with ten polynomial-type functions derived from the MATLAB R2019a program. The model results controlled by regression analyses revealed statistical suitability. These models demonstrate a more advantageous approach than prior studies for determining the annual total CO₂ emissions per unit area of the exterior walls of buildings. This study is intended to assist housing authorities and designers in making informed decisions about energy savings in buildings.