Optimizing Building Envelope Performance: Green Facade Materials and Their Effects on Peak Heating Load and Carbon Emissions in Pakistan

The building industry is a major contributor to environmental damage, responsible for 36% of global energy use and 39% of emissions, as reported by the 2018 Global Report from the United Nations and the International Energy Agency. This study evaluates the impact of low-carbon green facade materials on peak heating load (PHL) and operational carbon emissions (kg equiv. CO2) for a hospital in Murree, Pakistan. Eight wall materials, including lightweight and heavyweight concrete blocks, burnt clay bricks, and fly ash bricks, were analysed. Results show that W1 reduced PHL and CO2 emissions by 56.5%. Five plaster materials and six insulation materials were also assessed. P1 plaster achieved a 41.68% reduction, while INS1 insulation reduced emissions by 18.09%. For roofs, five materials were studied, with R1 reducing emissions by 19.51%. Applying P1 and INS1 to roofs yielded reductions of 15.18% and 15.49%, respectively. These findings highlight material selection's critical role in reducing emissions.