In my experience post doctoral architectural research towards zero carbon buildings appears to concentrate on
1)solar power applications in conjunction with passive solar design strategies;
2) readapted use of materials and/or land and/or buildings.
Experimental (data gathering on site) and Simulation (computer modelling) methodologies tend to be used. Life Cycle Analysis methods also appear to be making their way into the architectural body of research.
Policy intents and applications to the above topics are another area of architectural research into zero carbon buildings, thought more common at an urban design/neighborhood/town planning scale.
Zero Carbon Architecture." However, the field of sustainable and zero-carbon architecture is dynamic, and researchers are likely exploring various topics related to reducing carbon emissions in the built environment. Here are list of some research topics in this field
Renewable Energy Integration:Investigating innovative ways to integrate renewable energy sources (solar, wind, etc.) into architectural designs and urban planning to achieve zero carbon or low-carbon buildings.
Materials and Construction Techniques:Exploring sustainable building materials, construction techniques, and technologies that contribute to energy efficiency and reduced carbon footprint throughout the building lifecycle.
Smart Building Systems:Researching the implementation of smart building systems, including IoT (Internet of Things) technologies, for optimizing energy use, monitoring building performance, and enhancing overall sustainability.
Urban Planning for Sustainability:Examining urban planning strategies and policies that support the development of zero carbon cities, including efficient transportation systems, green spaces, and sustainable infrastructure.
Circular Economy in Architecture:Investigating the principles of the circular economy within the context of architecture, focusing on minimizing waste, reusing materials, and creating regenerative systems.
Climate-Responsive Design:Researching design strategies that respond to the specific climate conditions of a region, considering passive design principles to reduce the need for mechanical heating or cooling.
Human Behavior and Energy Consumption:Studying the relationship between human behavior and energy consumption in buildings, with a focus on behavioral interventions and nudges to promote sustainable practices.