How Does Architecture Promote The Use Of Green Building Certifications And Standards?
The concept of sustainability has come a long way in the construction industry, with more focus on eco-friendly designs and practices. As a result, green building certifications have become increasingly important in evaluating and recognizing sustainable buildings. Europe has been at the forefront in promoting and adopting sustainable construction practices, and as such, this article aims to discuss the top five green building certifications in Europe:
1. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
LEED is one of the most popular and widely recognized green building certification schemes in Europe, and globally. It was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council in 1998 and has since become a benchmark for sustainable building practices. The certification is based on a point system that evaluates factors such as energy efficiency, building location, water use, and materials sustainability.
The benefits of LEED certification include the reduction in operating costs, improved human health and well-being, and the promotion of sustainable practices. The certification has four levels: Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, with Platinum being the highest level achievable.
2. Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology (BREEAM)
BREEAM is a UK-based certification scheme used in over 70 countries to evaluate buildings' environmental impacts. It was developed in 1990 by the Building Research Establishment (BRE), a British organization that specializes in research and consultancy services for the construction industry.
BREEAM evaluates buildings based on factors such as energy efficiency, water use, materials sustainability, and waste management. The certification has five levels: Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent, and Outstanding, with Outstanding being the highest level achievable.
3. Green Building Council Italia - Certificazione Edifici Sostenibili (GBC Italia - CES)
GBC Italia - CES is an Italian green building certification scheme managed by Green Building Council Italia, a non-profit organization that promotes sustainable construction in Italy. The certification evaluates buildings based on factors such as energy efficiency, water use, materials sustainability, and indoor environmental quality.
The certification has three levels: Bronze, Silver, and Gold, with Gold being the highest level achievable. The benefits of GBC Italia - CES certification include environmental sustainability, healthy and comfortable indoor environments, and a reduction in operating costs.
4. Deutsche Gesellschaft für Nachhaltiges Bauen e.V. (DGNB)
DGNB is a German green building certification scheme developed by the German Sustainable Building Council. The certification evaluates buildings based on factors such as energy efficiency, water use, materials sustainability, and social and economic sustainability.
The certification has four levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, with Platinum being the highest level achievable. The benefits of DGNB certification include the promotion of sustainable construction practices, environmental sustainability, and improved human health and well-being.
5. Estidama Pearl Rating System (PRS)
Estidama Pearl Rating System is a green building certification scheme developed by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council to promote sustainable construction practices in the UAE. The certification evaluates buildings based on factors such as energy efficiency, water use, materials sustainability, and indoor environmental quality.
The certification has four levels: One Pearl, Two Pearl, Three Pearl, and Four Pearl, with Four Pearl being the highest level achievable. The benefits of Estidama Pearl Rating System certification include environmental sustainability, healthy and comfortable indoor environments, and a reduction in operating costs.
The Importance of Green Building Certifications
Green building certifications play a critical role in promoting sustainable construction practices and recognizing sustainable buildings. The benefits of these certifications include:
1. Energy Efficiency
Green building certifications promote energy efficiency by evaluating buildings for features such as efficient HVAC systems, renewable energy sources, and intelligent lighting systems. The benefits of energy efficiency include reduced operating costs and a reduction in carbon emissions.
2. Environmental Sustainability
Green building certifications promote environmental sustainability by evaluating buildings for features such as sustainable materials, water efficiency, and waste management. The benefits of environmental sustainability include the preservation of resources, reduction in carbon emissions, and improved air and water quality.
3. Improved Human Health and Well-being
Green building certifications promote human health and well-being by evaluating buildings for factors such as indoor air quality, natural lighting, and acoustics. The benefits of improved human health and well-being include increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and improved mental health.
4. Marketability
Green building certifications promote marketability by differentiating sustainable buildings from conventional buildings. The benefits of marketability include higher property values, reduced vacancy rates, and increased tenant retention.
FAQ
1. How long does it take to get certified?
The length of time it takes to get certified typically depends on the certification scheme and the complexity of the project. Generally, green building certifications can take between 3 to 18 months to complete.
2. How much does it cost to get certified?
The cost of certification typically depends on the certification scheme and the size and complexity of the project. Generally, green building certifications can cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.
3. What is the difference between LEED and BREEAM?
The primary difference between LEED and BREEAM is the geographic focus and the evaluation criteria. While LEED is widely recognized in North America, BREEAM is widely recognized in Europe. Additionally, the evaluation criteria for LEED and BREEAM differ slightly, with BREEAM placing more emphasis on the social and economic sustainability of buildings.
4. How do green building certifications benefit the environment?
Green building certifications benefit the environment by promoting sustainable construction practices and recognizing sustainable buildings. The benefits of environmental sustainability include the preservation of resources, reduction in carbon emissions, and improved air and water quality.
5. What is the benefit of improved indoor air quality?
Improved indoor air quality promotes human health and well-being by reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses, allergies, and asthma. Additionally, improved indoor air quality can lead to increased productivity and reduced absenteeism.
6. What is the benefit of marketability?
Marketability benefits sustainable buildings by increasing property values, reducing vacancy rates, and increasing tenant retention. Sustainable buildings also have a positive impact on the surrounding community, leading to increased interest from businesses and investors.
In conclusion, green building certifications are essential in promoting sustainable construction practices and recognizing sustainable buildings. The certifications discussed in this article have different evaluation criteria and levels, but they all share the common goal of promoting environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and human health and well-being. By achieving these certifications, buildings can benefit from lower operating costs, increased marketability, and improved environmental impact.
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