Two-period based carbon-economy equilibrium strategy for modular construction supply planning

Abstract

The integration of modern prefabrication techniques into traditional stick-built construction has attracted considerable attention as a solution to reducing construction industry carbon emissions. However, no approach has been developed to holistically quantify and optimize the carbon reduction/economic costs trade-off for the modular construction supply planning (MCSP). This paper introduces a two-period based equilibrium strategy that fully considers the procurement-prefabrication-assembly logistics optimization to determine an economic costs/environmental impact balance in modular construction. The proposed methodology is capable of optimizing the preparation and construction schemes and dynamic transportation arrangements under multiple carbon-economy preference scenarios. By employing uncertain parameters to account for the material and delivery cost fluctuations, the model can accurately depict the industry characteristics of modular construction supply. A case study from Florida is then conducted to validate the practicality and robustness of the equilibrium strategy. The applications indicate that the proposed methodology can assist the construction enterprises to systematically reduce carbon emissions and serve as decision support for modular construction supply planning.