Lifecycle Information Models for Carbon Accounting in Transportation Megaprojects

Abstract

Transportation megaprojects represent a significant proportion of global infrastructure investment and are corresponding major contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions. Accurately predicting and managing carbon emissions throughout the lifecycle of these massive undertakings is critical for achieving international climate targets. However, traditional carbon accounting methods rely heavily on static lifecycle assessments that struggle to adapt to the dynamic and complex nature of megaproject delivery. This paper presents a comprehensive investigation into predicting carbon accounting by integrating Lifecycle Information Models with advanced process modeling techniques. By utilizing process modeling to map out the intricate workflows of planning, construction, operation, and end-of-life phases, and dynamically linking these models to the rich data environments of Lifecycle Information Models, a continuous and adaptive carbon accounting mechanism is established. The research explores the theoretical underpinnings of this integration, details a robust methodological framework for practical implementation, and evaluates the expected outcomes through analytical discussions. The findings indicate that replacing static assessments with dynamic, process-oriented data integration significantly enhances the precision, traceability, and optimization potential of carbon management in transportation infrastructure. This approach enables proactive decision-making, allowing stakeholders to identify emission hotspots early and implement targeted mitigation strategies.