THE THREE LIVING LABS
The unique aspect of the LCB R+D Initiative is its convergence of fundamental science and applied research to accelerate use-inspired solutions. The university setting is ideal for establishing living labs to deploy such research. Campus buildings not only serve as spaces for living, learning, recreation, and social gathering but also as living labs where new innovations are demonstrated and tested – bringing research from lab to site. These living labs are designed to exert overlapping influence on one another, leveraging each lab’s innovations to exponentially maximize CO2 reduction goals.
Construction Innovation Living Lab (CILL)
The Construction Innovation Living Lab (CILL) is dedicated to applying and testing new technologies aimed at decreasing embodied carbon in new buildings and infrastructure. Through the deployment of novel circular materials, digitization technologies, and automated construction practices, CILL envisions buildings acting as carbon sinks. Integrating technologies such as digital twins and AI across the lifecycle optimization in construction, energy management, and environmental monitoring, while emergent techniques like 3D printing, automation, and robotic assembly enhance construction efficiency and sustainability. Augmented visualization and collaborative robotics further streamline processes, addressing labor shortages and improving on-site and off-site construction outcomes. CILL aspires to pave the way for more efficient and sustainable building practices, enabling campus infrastructures to be a proving ground for net zero to net negative emissions goals.
Retrofits & Operations Living Lab (ROLL)
The Retrofits & Operations Living Lab (ROLL) is dedicated to upgrading existing infrastructures, addressing the urgent need to retrofit 80% of today’s building stock to achieve net zero emissions. This lab advances the adaptation of aging systems to new energy standards and climate resilience, focusing on operational efficiency and grid stability through real-world application of advanced technologies. The Retrofits & Operations Living Lab plays a critical role in guiding this transition by leveraging research from both public and private sectors to bring cost-effective and proven technology solutions to market.
Circular Economy Living Lab (CELL)
The Circular Economy Living Lab (CELL) implements zero-waste principles of reducing, recycling, and reusing materials throughout the entire construction ecosystem. As a crucial tool to combat climate change, circular approaches prioritize keeping materials in circulation rather than sending them to landfills. The construction sector is one of the most potent sectors for circular transition. In the US alone, 600 million tons of construction waste is generated annually, with 90% originating from demolition. The Circular Economy Living Lab aims not only to divert waste back into circulation but also to transform waste into valuable commodities, creating products that are more durable and resilient for infrastructural needs. Modular design principles such as Design for Assembly and Disassembly are integrated into manufacturing processes and designs, enabling ease of component assembly, disassembly, and reconfiguration. Materials are continually reassessed for reuse, evaluating their remaining functional life for potential redeployment. These recycling and waste management programs are intrinsically linked to both campus and regional networks, ensuring a comprehensive approach to sustainability.