At Altamira Constructora, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of
sustainable building practices. One of the most effective ways we demonstrate our
commitment to sustainability is by obtaining green building certifications. These
certifications not only validate our efforts, but also assure our clients that their
projects meet the highest environmental standards. In this blog, we will explore
three of the most recognised green building certifications: LEED, BREEAM and
Passive House, as well as the requirements to obtain them and their impact on the
sustainability of projects.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
LEED is one of the world’s best known certification systems, developed by the
United States Green Building Council (USGBC). This system evaluates the design,
construction, operation and maintenance of green buildings. Projects can obtain
different levels of certification (Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum) depending on
the number of points obtained in various categories, such as:
- Energy efficiency: Use of systems and materials that reduce energy
consumption. - Water management:Implementation of technologies that optimise water use.
- Materials and resources: Use of sustainable materials and recycling practices.
- Indoor environmental quality: Ensuring a healthy environment for building
occupants.
To obtain LEED certification, projects must go through a rigorous evaluation
process that includes a detailed review of documentation and, in some cases, site
visits.
BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method)
BREEAM is the world’s oldest building sustainability assessment system, developed
in the UK. It assesses the environmental performance of buildings in several
categories, such as:
- Management: Efficiency in project and building management.
- Health and well-being: Indoor environmental quality and occupant comfort.
- Energy: Reduction of energy consumption and use of renewable energy.
- Transport: Access and sustainable transport options.
- Water: Water management and conservation.
- Materials: Use of sustainable materials with low environmental impact.
- Waste: Efficient waste management during and after construction.
BREEAM awards scores that translate into Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent and
Exceptional ratings. Achieving this certification involves an independent third-party
assessment.
Passive House
Passive House certification, which originated in Germany, focuses on extreme
energy efficiency and thermal comfort. Passive House buildings are designed to
consume very little energy, maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature with
minimal heating and cooling requirements. Requirements include:
- Superior thermal insulation: Use of high-quality insulation materials to reduce
heat loss. - Airtightness: Extremely airtight construction to prevent air leakage.
- Ventilation with heat recovery: Ventilation systems that recover heat from
outgoing air. - High-performance windows and doors: Use of windows and doors that minimise
heat loss.
Passive House certification is achieved through a detailed design process and
rigorous verification to ensure that all standards are met.
Impact on the sustainability of projects
Achieving these certifications has a significant impact on the sustainability of
building projects. By meeting LEED, BREEAM and Passive House requirements,
buildings:
- Reduce environmental impact: Reduced resource consumption and waste
generation. - Improve energy efficiency: Lower energy consumption and carbon emissions.
- Promote health and well-being: Better indoor conditions for occupants.
- Increase property value: Greater attractiveness to environmentally conscious
buyers and investors.
At Altamira Constructora, we are committed to following these practices and
obtaining these certifications to ensure that our projects are not only sustainable,
but also beneficial to society and the environment. In doing so, we contribute to a
greener and more sustainable future for all.
