BIM Technology in Green Buildings: Integrating BIM with Greenery Systems

The importance of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in achieving sustainable goals is well recognized in the global construction industry. Several studies on BIM have been conducted in the past decade. However, a considerable gap exists regarding the integration of BIM with greenery systems. Greenery infrastructural systems provide a great opportunity in this respect by connecting buildings to the urban environment thereby integrating greenery into increasingly densely populated cities. They may also influence microclimate conditions and contribute to enhancing life quality in urban spaces in various ways. It is to be expected that greening of the building surfaces will be mandatory in an increasing number of cities in the future, in the form of converting a specific area of the building’s facade into green space. In this context, the simulation can be used to carry out the obligatory planning of the facade greening. The integration of the concepts of greenery systems and BIM technology could promote the digitalization process in the building sector by offering solutions to improve environmental quality whilst reducing costs. This study explores ways in which BIM and greenery systems can be integrated through an analytical review of evidence from both academic research and case studies; it will also address present challenges towards this green development. In addition, the most significant simulation factors for modelling existing greenery systems and their associated key performance parameters will be analysed and prepared for application in BIM tools. This research could provide great potential by simplifying the decision-making process for the implementation of greenery systems in buildings and can therefore serve as a crucial interface to guide building and greenery researchers and practitioners.