The importance of sustainable building certification in construction

For some time now, ecological awareness has been a prominent topic in all areas, including housing. New technologies and innovations are being put to use for sustainability to achieve buildings that not only reduce environmental impact but also provide health benefits for their occupants. In this sense, sustainable building certification is a key aspect in helping to create a more sustainable future for our communities and the planet in general.

Sustainability Certifications

Sustainable certifications are a way to evaluate the environmental impact and efficiency of a building in terms of sustainability. Within the construction context, these types of distinctions are used to measure the building's ability to reduce its environmental impact, promote energy efficiency, and improve the quality of life for the people who inhabit or work in it. As we can see, it is not just simple energy certification of buildings, but it goes much further, addressing all kinds of aspects.

Of course, certifications are based on predefined standards and criteria developed by organizations specializing in sustainability, both public and private. The goal is none other than to encourage more responsible and sustainable practices in the construction sector.

There are different types of sustainability certifications that apply in various areas and sectors. In the case of construction, the most commonly used methodologies are LEED, BREEAM, Green Star, and WELL, among others.

LEED Certification

The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certificate is a system that evaluates the sustainability of buildings in different categories such as energy efficiency, the use of materials and resources, or indoor air quality. Considering all criteria, each project receives a score out of 110. Depending on the obtained value, the GBCe (Green Building Council Spain) grants different types of distinctions: Basic (40-49 points), Silver (50-59), Gold (60-79), and Platinum (80 or more).

Ventilation and Sustainability in Construction

Ventilation is a key element in achieving good indoor air quality and contributing to the building's sustainability.

• First of all, it contributes to energy efficiency. Good air circulation reduces the thermal load of the building, meaning less energy is needed to maintain a comfortable temperature.
• It improves indoor air quality by reducing the risks of respiratory diseases and allergies.
• Finally, it decreases the concentration of toxic gases and other pollutants in indoor air, which can be especially beneficial in buildings with high occupancy density or in urban areas with significant pollution.

The EU's Support for Building Renovations to Make Them More Sustainable

What happens with existing buildings? In this regard, the proper rehabilitation of homes is key to adapting them to the sustainability standards applied in many countries.

The European Union has demonstrated a strong commitment to promoting sustainability in this sector, recognizing its importance in achieving the proposed climate and energy targets. We must mention the Next Generation European funds. These resources are one of the significant initiatives and programs of the EU to encourage the renovation of existing buildings and make them more sustainable.

Climate change and its consequences have driven the need to break with established norms and opt for new ways of doing things. This translates into significant transformations in how buildings are conceived and created. Sustainable building certification is recognition for a job well done in the present while looking toward the future. In the article LEED Certificate Requirements for Ventilation Systems you can learn more about this topic.