A scientometric analysis of low carbon building research

Abstract

Due to global climate change, carbon reduction has become the critical issue for the construction industry. Low carbon building (LCB) has been adopted as a strategic objective, and its implementation demonstrates the enormous potential from reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption. However, few studies have been done to examine the knowledge structure of low carbon building research, which is necessary to guide scholars and practitioners. Therefore, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of research areas regarding low carbon building using the scientometrics method. A total of 378 low carbon building related publications were collected and reviewed. Based on a co-word analysis, co-citation analysis and cluster analysis, a knowledge structure of LCBs research was developed. The knowledge structure is useful for directing future research on low carbon building. The results are also helpful for various stakeholders to have a better understanding of low carbon building research and future directions.