Green building: You should know these sustainability certificates

Green buildings are characterized by the fact that a high level of attention has been paid to sustainable material selection, the lowest possible energy consumption and planning that takes environmental protection requirements into account. This includes, among other things, the use of environmentally friendly materials such as renewable raw materials, natural stone or recycled products such as stone and metal. Effective insulation of roofs and walls ensures low energy consumption, and construction is carried out on sites that allow optimal use of solar energy. The use of renewable energies such as wind power, hydropower or photovoltaics also plays a major role.

Building materials that are more environmentally friendly than conventional materials are referred to as sustainable. They are obtained from renewable raw materials, are free of chemicals and can be disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. There is a wide range of building materials that are considered sustainable, such as wood, clay, and sand-lime bricks. Ecological paints and coatings are also increasingly being used in green building projects.

There are some additional costs associated with LEED certification. They include not only the fees for the certificate and the fees for inspectors and consultants, but also the extra work required for technology and materials. The fees depend on the size of the project and can reach into the six-figure range.

Sustainable building is an evolution of green building. To be considered sustainable, a building project must meet ecological, economic, and sociocultural or functional quality criteria. Sustainability is based on these three pillars, which incorporate a whole range of aspects. For example, a building must be constructed with environmentally friendly materials that can be disposed of in an environmentally sound manner. Building materials such as plastics based on crude oil, insulating wool or paints must be avoided; instead, natural building materials, natural insulating materials and natural paints are used. There is also a focus on reduced energy consumption, for example through multiple insulated walls, windows and roofs, as well as functional considerations that serve the common good. There is not necessarily a one-size-fits-all approach to green building, but in principle, issues such as protecting the ecosystem during construction or considering the sustainable redesign of existing buildings should be explored.

At the beginning, there is always an assessment of the current situation. Experts draw up a report on sustainability and water and energy efficiency. Here, all the key points that are important for the certificate are examined and evaluated. If the building or construction project meets the requirements, green building certification is awarded. The inspection processes vary to some extent in the individual certification programs, which in addition to those already mentioned also include NaWoh certification or sustainability management according to ISO.