The construction and operation of buildings is characterized by resource intensity in the form of massive consumption of raw materials and products, large financial and human labor expenditures, energy consumption, water consumption, long term, and significant environmental impacts, especially during their use. The currently implemented concept of sustainable development and circular economy influences the directions of development of construction industry and increases interest in self-sufficient buildings, especially in terms of energy, use of closed water circuits, use of waste materials. The aim of the article is to analyse the key determinants for the development of autonomous buildings. The general idea is that an autonomous building is designed to function without the support and services provided by public facilities, such as power, water, gas and sewage networks, waste management, and even the provision of food. On the basis of literature analysis and expert interviews, the factors characterizing this type of construction were determined. Their analysis by means of the DEMATEL method allowed to assess and indicate the most significant cause-and effect relationships conditioning the development of autonomous buildings.

This article addresses the issue of reducing carbon footprint in construction production. It focuses on the sources and factors of greenhouse gas emissions responsible for climate change. The construction sector plays a significant role in generating carbon footprint, both in the manufacturing of construction products within supply chains and during the execution of construction work on-site. The identified factors that influence carbon footprint throughout the lifecycle of a construction project and the life of a building are examined and analysed using the DEMATEL method. The research aims to identify causal relationships among factors that contribute to minimising carbon footprint in construction projects. The factors with the highest causal impact are identified in each phase of the building’s lifecycle, including Building Information Modelling (BIM), appropriate selection of construction products, and regulatory and financial incentives. The results of the analysis can be utilised to support decision-making processes aimed at reducing harmful emissions during project realisation and building operation.