Development of optimization model for balancing time, cost, and environmental impact in retrofitting projects with NSGA-III

This paper presents a novel time-cost-environmental impact trade-off optimization Model (TCETOM) designed specifically for retrofitting projects in densely populated areas, with a focus on India. Retrofitting is vital for urban sustainability, especially in regions like India, where existing structures often need upgrading to meet modern standards while minimizing environmental impact. The TCETOM integrates various crucial aspects of retrofitting, including structural reinforcement, energy efficiency enhancements, historical preservation, accessibility improvements, technology integration, safety enhancements, aesthetic enhancements, water efficiency measures, waste management strategies, health and well-being considerations, and community engagement initiatives. Leveraging the NSGA-III algorithm, the TCETOM identifies Pareto-optimal solutions that balance project duration, cost, and environmental impact, aiding decision-makers in optimizing projects’ schedule. A case study conducted in India demonstrates the TCETOM’s practical applicability, providing valuable decision support for stakeholders involved in retrofitting projects. Moreover, a comparative examination against established optimization techniques like MOPSO, MOACO, and MOTLBO underscores NSGA-III’s exceptional performance in achieving both convergence and diversity in optimal solutions. This framework represents a significant stride towards enhancing sustainability and resilience in urban development projects, thus offering substantial contributions to mitigating challenges arising from rapid urbanization and environmental decline, notably in densely populated regions such as India. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024.