Standards and labels are essential resources for sustainable construction, providing tools to systematically evaluate, measure, and compare sustainability in building projects. Grounded in the three-pillar model of society, environment, and economy, these frameworks emphasize that truly sustainable buildings must balance these areas, even when conflicts arise. By systematizing tasks, standards and labels make sustainability measurable, comparable, and actionable, enabling informed decision-making throughout the building process.
Examples of these standards include Minergie, which prioritizes energy efficiency and renewable energy use, and SNBS (Sustainable Building Standard Switzerland), which offers a more comprehensive approach by addressing ecological, social, and economic aspects for both buildings and infrastructure. These standards provide a foundation for designing and constructing sustainable projects, ensuring long-term benefits in energy efficiency, environmental impact, and economic value.
By selecting the right standard suited to the size and complexity of a project, builders can ensure that investments in sustainability not only contribute to environmental goals but also deliver cost savings and improved performance over the building’s lifecycle. Standards and labels serve as indispensable guides for achieving efficient, resilient, and certified construction practices.
