Green building set to go mainstream
Numerous methods for assessing the sustainability of buildings already exist within Europe and other parts of the world. However, there are significant differences between these tools. The EU-funded OPEN HOUSE project harmonised existing rating tools for sustainable building and developed a common assessment methodology based on European standards. The methodology was tested using 67 case studies across 35 European countries to determine its applicability and gain valuable feedback to enable further development. Sustainability indicators employed in the case studies were evaluated through a free online assessment tool developed during the project. Feedback from trained assessors confirmed that the assessment tool and guidelines were helpful, user friendly and facilitated the building assessment. The first version of the OPEN HOUSE methodology was refined based on feedback analysis from the case studies, the SUPERBUILDINGS initiative and international standardisation committees. Weighting for each sustainability indicator was based on a transparent methodology that evaluated its impact in terms of extent, intensity and duration. The weight of the indicator was then adjusted to match with local priorities, existing national schemes and the requirements of local authorities. OPEN HOUSE will facilitate the adoption of a common assessment methodology at the European level that is open and accessible to all and constantly being improved. The whole construction sector together with policymakers and standardisation bodies will have an effective instrument for boosting green business and policies. The methodology will enable architects, engineers and owners to assess the sustainability of their buildings in a simple and reliable way and provide methods for improvement. The project outcome will therefore encourage competitiveness and innovation, resulting in cost savings due to decreased water and energy use as well as waste reduction. Furthermore, insurers will be better able to determine risk and local authorities can use the tool for specifying a minimal environmental performance for new facilities. In addition, organisations that use the tool to demonstrate adherence to sustainable construction practices can be recognised as good 'corporate citizens'. OPEN HOUSE results will therefore help the green building sector to grow across Europe. The methodology will reduce environmental impacts through energy and water saving and green procurement, and improve the quality of life of those using the buildings.
Keywords
Green building, sustainable construction, rating tool, building sector, assessment methodology, building assessment, international standardisation, sustainability indicator, environmental performance
