Examining Energy Efficiency Practices in Office Buildings through the Lens of LEED, BREEAM, and DGNB Certifications

Bianca Gasparetto Rebelatto (), Amanda Lange Salvia, Luciana Londero Brandli and Walter Leal Filho
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Bianca Gasparetto Rebelatto: Post Graduate Program in Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Passo Fundo, BR 285, Passo Fundo 99052-900, RS, Brazil
Amanda Lange Salvia: Post Graduate Program in Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Passo Fundo, BR 285, Passo Fundo 99052-900, RS, Brazil
Luciana Londero Brandli: Post Graduate Program in Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Passo Fundo, BR 285, Passo Fundo 99052-900, RS, Brazil
Walter Leal Filho: European School of Sustainability Science and Research, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, 21033 Hamburg, Germany

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 11, 1-24

Abstract: Energy accounts for a significant share of carbon emissions, and buildings play a substantial role in this by contributing to both direct and indirect emissions throughout their lifecycle. Enhancing energy efficiency in buildings is a strategy to mitigate these impacts. The main goal of this review is to uncover solutions, trends, and examples of good practices in the field of office buildings. It presents effective cases and a SWOT analysis of LEED, BREEAM, and DGNB certifications, highlighting their contributions to energy efficiency in buildings on an international scale. The paper identifies and outlines similarities and differences between each methodology used to achieve energy efficiency in different buildings and contexts. The findings may allow new ways to improve access and obtain results regarding energy efficiency, thereby supporting building owners and companies in finding more effective solutions. The research highlights the necessity for continual enhancements in these systems, which should involve addressing economic factors, conducting post-occupancy evaluations, and considering lifecycle perspectives. The recommendations encompass standardizing practices, considering costs, conducting regular revisions, managing materials and resources, and incorporating occupancy measures.

Keywords: certification; LEED; BREEAM; DNGB; nZEB; rating systems; energy codes (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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