Passive design strategies and innovative materials for Net-Zero Energy Buildings

Buildings account for a substantial share of global final energy use and CO2 emissions, so reducing thermal loads is a prerequisite for delivering net-zero energy buildings (NZEBs) and nearly zero-energy buildings (nZEBs). This PRISMA 2020-guided systematic review synthesises evidence on envelope-first passive strategies and advanced envelope concepts, with a particular focus on (i) orientation and form; (ii) solar control (shading and daylighting); (iii) high-performance insulation and airtightness; and (iv) latent/thermal storage measures such as phase change materials (PCMs). Sixty peer-reviewed journal articles (2012–2023) were selected from 163 records identified in Scopus and Google Scholar, with citation tracking to reduce omission risk. Rather than restating generic passive design principles, the review contributes (a) a transparent coding protocol linking strategies to climate contexts; (b) a climate–strategy matrix that summarises the direction of reported effects and where evidence is most/least consistent; and (c) an evidence-informed limitations map (cost, constructability, maintenance, and validation gaps) to support practical decision-making. Across the reviewed evidence, the magnitude and reliability of performance benefits are strongly climate- and baseline-dependent; therefore, claims are reported with explicit context (climate, building type, baseline, and metric) rather than as universal effect sizes. The paper concludes with a conservative delivery sequence that aligns with the evidence base: prioritise envelope measures that reduce steady-state loads, then manage transient loads (thermal mass/PCM where supported), and finally integrate renewables and controls.