How can architects measure the sustainability of their designs?

1 Lifecycle assessment

One of the most comprehensive ways to measure the sustainability of a design is to perform a lifecycle assessment (LCA). This is a method that evaluates the environmental impacts of a building from the extraction of raw materials, to the construction, operation, maintenance, and demolition stages. LCA can help architects identify the most critical sources of emissions, energy use, water consumption, waste generation, and other environmental indicators. LCA can also help architects compare different design options and optimize their performance.

2 Green building rating systems

Another way to measure the sustainability of a design is to use a green building rating system. These are frameworks that provide criteria and standards for assessing the sustainability of a building based on various categories, such as site, energy, water, materials, indoor environment, innovation, and social aspects. Some of the most widely used rating systems are LEED, BREEAM, Green Star, and WELL. These systems can help architects set goals, track progress, and certify their projects according to different levels of sustainability.

4 Carbon footprint

Carbon footprint is a measure of the greenhouse gas emissions associated with a building or a design. It can be calculated by multiplying the energy use by the emission factor of the energy source. Carbon footprint can help architects understand the climate impact of their designs and identify opportunities to reduce it. Some of the ways to lower the carbon footprint of a design are to use low-carbon materials, increase energy efficiency, and incorporate renewable energy sources.

5 Social value

Social value is a measure of the social and economic benefits that a building or a design generates for its users and the community. It can include aspects such as health, well-being, productivity, safety, accessibility, inclusion, diversity, and culture. Social value can help architects demonstrate the positive impact of their designs on people and society. Some of the ways to increase the social value of a design are to engage with stakeholders, create flexible and adaptable spaces, promote social interaction and cohesion, and enhance local identity and heritage.

6 Portfolio analysis

Portfolio analysis is a method that evaluates the sustainability of a collection of projects or designs based on their performance indicators and benchmarks. Portfolio analysis can help architects monitor and improve the sustainability of their practice and showcase their achievements and commitments. Some of the tools that can assist architects in portfolio analysis are the AIA 2030 Commitment, the RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge, and the Architecture 2030 Challenge.