Critical Success Factors for Optimizing Passive Design Strategies in Net-Zero Carbon Buildings

This study investigates the critical success factors (CSFs) for optimizing passive design strategies in net-zero carbon (NZC) buildings within the Ghanaian construction industry. As climate change accelerates, the built environment’s substantial contribution to global carbon emissions demands urgent mitigation. Passive design strategies, when properly optimized, can significantly reduce operational energy demand and carbon footprint. Employing a quantitative approach, this study surveyed 82 industry professionals, using Relative Importance Index (RII) analysis and exploratory factor analysis to identify and rank critical success factors. Results highlight the importance of integrated design approaches, site-specific analysis, effective shading and glazing, thermal mass and insulation, ventilation, renewable energy integration, and commissioning. The study contributes empirical evidence to support policy and design frameworks aimed at enhancing NZC adoption in developing economies.