An introduction to green building schemes

As we continue on the journey to net zero by 2050, the built environment has an important role to play. Buildings alone are responsible for 37% of global greenhouse gas emissions, according to the World Green Building Council (WGBC). Many architects now aim for sustainable certification on their projects – but it can sometimes be unclear how a manufacturer can help them achieve their desired rating.

As you’re probably already aware, there are both national and regional third-party rating systems, as well as several that certify globally. Common goals include lowering emissions, improving occupant wellbeing and reducing waste.

A positive contribution

The first step is to understand whether your products can contribute to a project gaining green certification. This may involve working with colleagues in technical and sustainability roles to learn more about the products. Reasons for compliance may include positive life-cycle impact or use of responsibly sourced materials. If your product has points potential – or you know it has contributed points to a project’s certification – this is good news. It may be worth benchmarking, with the help of a third party consultant if necessary, exactly how and where your type of product can add points to a project aiming for certification in, for example, LEED. The results of this can give you another selling point as well as content for blogs, social media posts, case studies and even a CPD presentation.

It’s worth noting that products themselves cannot be formally labelled compliant for any rating system as it’s the building that’s being rated. However, products can help towards a certain rating. Supporting documentation, such as Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), can make the process of demonstrating that easier.

A glance at some of the global schemes

BREEAM – Introduced in the UK by the Building Research Establishment (BRE), this standard is active in many countries around the world. It covers a wide range of building types including commercial and residential, refurbishments and new builds, as well as community level sites.

LEED® – Launched in the US, the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standard has been adopted in more than 150 countries by at least 120,000 buildings. Like BREEAM, LEED covers commercial and residential projects as well as cities and communities.

Passivhaus – To achieve comfort, quality and lower running costs in any type of building, this standard takes a ‘whole house’ approach. Building orientation, net zero energy and air tightness are just some of the project features assessed.

WELL – With a focus on supporting occupant wellbeing, buildings are rated across 10 concepts: mind, community, movement and nourishment as well as thermal comfort, air, water, light, sound, and materials.

A win-win situation

All green building schemes have clear documentation concerning their requirements for certification. If your products can contribute to a sustainability scheme, then make sure you understand how and why, and then shout about it! Helping architects to make greener choices while promoting your eco-credentials is a win-win.