For most people, one of the reasons to live sustainably is to lessen humans’ negative impact on the viability of the earth’s resources. Because 40% of CO2 emissions in the US come from the building sector, the decision to design and build sustainably can make a huge impact on the environment.

Whole Building Approach versus Holistic Approach to studying and certifying sustainable buildings

There are myriad ways to analyze the sustainability of a building and at least 2 types of approaches to this analysis:

1. A physical site, building and systems approach that categorizes the various components and systems that make up a building.

In this way of looking at things, efficiency of systems, quality and sourcing of materials, and building science as it relates to climate-based building envelope design are some of the main components. Building certification programs that focus on these high-efficiency sustainably sourced buildings typically take into account these factors:

• Sustainable Sites
• Water Efficiency
• Energy & Atmosphere
• Materials & Resources
• Indoor Environment Quality
• Operations & Regional Priority

2. A holistic approach that focuses on the health and well-being of those occupying the building.

In this approach, the intent is to create a built environment for sustainable workforces, neighborhoods, and communities. Here, the criteria is evidence-based and encompass human behaviors and operations as well as the efficiency of the building (healthy building, healthy body, healthy mind). As an example, one certification program (FitWel) judges the performance of a building on its ability to carry out these strategies:

• Impacts Community Health
• Reduces Morbidity and Absenteeism
• Supports Social Equality
• Instills Feelings of Well-Being
• Provides Healthy Food Options
• Promotes Occupant Safety
• Increases Physical Activity

For more information on building sustainability certification programs, and how to choose a suitable one for your building project, read our blog post on SUSTAINABLE BUILDING CERTIFICATIONS.

Are you looking to make your next project “green,” but don’t know where to start?

Download our free Green Building Standards Comparison and get an at-a-glance view of the various standards for environmentally responsible design and construction.