A multi-criteria decision framework for the selection of low carbon building measures for office buildings in Hong Kong

Purpose – This paper aims to develop a multi-criteria decision framework (MCDF) for the selection of appropriate low carbon building (LCB) measures for office buildings in Hong Kong. Design/methodology/approach – The research was carried out through a critical literature review and a case study with a low carbon office building project. Findings – In total, 26 LCB measures were identified, under the five groups of building envelope, heating, ventilating and air conditioning system, lighting and elevators, renewable energy and appliances. Also identified were 16 decision criteria, centred on the implementation-related, economic, environmental and production-related aspects. The identified measures and criteria, coupled with the information and business processes of office building project delivery, formed the conceptual MCDF. The MCDF was also verified using an office building project. Research limitations/implications – The limitation of this research was the absence of the energy bill which could help to further verify the model in the case study. Originality/value – The developed framework should add value to knowledge of the use of multi-criteria decision-making methods and support the design decision-making of selecting LCB measures for office building projects in Hong Kong. The findings should also inform LCB design in other hot and humid subtropical urban environments.