Current Situation of LCA for Buildings used by National / Local Governments and Private Companies, and Development for Health Impact Assessment

Abstract

This article introduces the current situation of LCA for buildings. The research and development on LCA method of buildings started in 1990 as an activity of the Architectural Institute of Japan, and it became LCA guideline of buildings. By using of this guideline, the cost effectiveness evaluation tool to mitigate climate change was developed and applied by national and local government, and widely used by many private companies. As well as simplified LCA method was developed and introduced into the comprehensive assessment system for built environment efficiency named “CASBEE: Comprehensive Assessment System for Built Environment Efficiency” for all kind of buildings such as detached houses and large-scale commercial buildings. Furthermore, the human health impact assessment methods associated with indoor environment including indoor air pollution are conducted.