Challenges of the transition to high-performance passive cool envelopes: A systematic literature review

Abstract

While the world is experiencing rapid global warming, it is crucial to keep indoor environments thermally comfortable for human occupants. Consequently, a cooling energy demand increase of 72% is anticipated by 2100. Building envelopes, accounting for nearly 50% of energy consumption and significantly impact buildings’ energy performance. This paper systematically reviews research on the challenges of adopting passive cooling solutions in building envelopes. Firstly, a context review of the sustainability indicators in buildings is outlined based on triple bottom line theory. Then, the high-performance envelopes and passive cooling solutions are explored further. Subsequently, 65 papers selected through a PRISMA screening approach have been critically reviewed, identifying the main research streams, challenges, and mitigating strategies. Finally, a comprehensive list of barriers to the adoption of passive cooling solutions has been developed and presented in four major aspects related to policy, knowledge, technical, and economics. The findings outline key gaps in the academic literature, namely (1) lack of robust industry-led research projects

(2) lack of practical frameworks for facilitating passive cooling in building envelope retrofitting practices

(3) lack of policy targeted indicators within the sustainability triple bottom line

and (4) lack of in-depth research on local codes alongside practical guidance for policymakers. Synthesising the existing literature on the challenges to the applications of passive cooling solutions, this paper highlights the need for more integrated evidence-based decision-making across all relevant sectors and serves as a key resource for academics and construction industry stakeholders to move towards high-performance building applications.