How do you measure the environmental impact of a green building?

1 Life cycle assessment

One of the most comprehensive ways to measure the environmental impact of a green building is to conduct a life cycle assessment (LCA). LCA is a method that evaluates the environmental impacts of a product or a system from cradle to grave, considering all the stages of its life cycle, such as raw material extraction, manufacturing, transportation, use, maintenance, and disposal. LCA can help you compare different design options, identify hotspots of environmental impact, and optimize the use of resources and energy.

2 Environmental rating systems

Another way to measure the environmental impact of a green building is to use environmental rating systems. These are frameworks that provide criteria and indicators to measure and certify the environmental performance of a building according to various categories, such as energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor air quality, waste management, and biodiversity. Some of the most widely used environmental rating systems are LEED, BREEAM, Green Star, and EDGE.

3 Environmental indicators

A third way to measure the environmental impact of a green building is to use environmental indicators. These are quantitative or qualitative measures that reflect the state or change of a specific environmental aspect, such as carbon footprint, water footprint, ecological footprint, or green space ratio. Environmental indicators can help you monitor and report the environmental impact of a green building over time, and communicate the results to different stakeholders.

4 Simulation and modeling

A fourth way to measure the environmental impact of a green building is to use simulation and modeling tools. These are software applications that allow you to create virtual models of a building and simulate its behavior and performance under different scenarios and conditions. Simulation and modeling tools can help you test and optimize the design and operation of a green building, and evaluate its environmental impact in terms of energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, water use, and waste generation.

5 Sensors and smart meters

A fifth way to measure the environmental impact of a green building is to use sensors and smart meters. These are devices that collect and transmit data on the physical and environmental parameters of a building, such as temperature, humidity, light, air quality, electricity, water, and gas. Sensors and smart meters can help you measure and control the environmental impact of a green building in real time, and provide feedback and recommendations to improve its efficiency and comfort.

6 Surveys and audits

A sixth way to measure the environmental impact of a green building is to use surveys and audits. These are methods that involve collecting and analyzing information from the occupants and users of a building, such as their satisfaction, preferences, behavior, and feedback. Surveys and audits can help you measure and improve the environmental impact of a green building in terms of its social and economic aspects, such as health, well-being, productivity, and cost-effectiveness.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?