Green pioneers: What is LEED certification?
LEED certification is a vital step for clients and developers who place sustainable design and environmentally conscious building practices at the centre of their projects. The LEED point system, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), serves as the basis for evaluating the environmental footprint of buildings. By implementing LEED standards, projects not only become more sustainable, but also set new standards in the field of green building.
The importance of green building is fundamental. In a world increasingly affected by the effects of climate change, LEED-certified buildings, for example, offer a solution for the reduction of energy and water consumption. Such properties are pioneers in the use of renewable energy and efficient water utilisation systems. This reduces operating costs and makes a significant contribution to environmental protection.
Why LEED certification is more than just an environmental label
Climate change and the associated environmental impacts are challenging us to rethink the way we build and live. LEED-certified buildings are an important step towards a more sustainable future because they are resource-efficient and have a positive impact on people's health and the environment. Companies and investors are increasingly recognising the value that sustainable buildings offer - in particular, lower operating costs, higher rental and resale values and improved user satisfaction are key factors here.
Natural air systems: how D+H supports the energy performance of sustainable properties
The natural ventilation systems from D+H reduce overall energy consumption and are an optimal alternative to conventional air conditioning systems and mechanical ventilation systems. The innovative lift shaft smoke extraction and ventilation solutions also reduce heating energy costs for the entire building by up to 7 %. In addition, the modern D+H systems reduce CO2 emissions by permanently opening and closing the lift shaft.
The use of products and materials with a positive ecological, economic and social impact on the life cycle is fundamental to the construction of green buildings. With EPDs, we provide transparent information on the environmental performance of the products used for electrical controls, drives and pneumatic valves. D+H is also committed to reducing the use of harmful substances in electronic products.
The air system solutions from D+H support an optimum air exchange rate so that the working and living environment emerges stronger. Low-noise drives are also used to minimise the overall noise of the devices. Our BlueKit system reduces draughts in the building and has a positive effect on thermal conditions.
D+H products can contribute to earning LEED points in three credit categories. The products can have a direct or indirect effect on LEED certification. The table below only shows an extract from the scorecard.
Low-noise devices (indirect contribution): 1 point
Thermal (indirect contribution): 1 point
Indoor air quality (direct contribution): 2 points
Material selection (direct contribution): 2 points
Environmental product declarations (direct contribution): 2 points
Optimisation of energy efficiency (indirect contribution): 18 points
Total number of points achievable through D+H: 26 points
The first step begins in the planning phase. At this point, it is essential that clients and architects work closely together to develop a sustainable design that meets LEED Gold criteria. This includes selecting a suitable location that promotes access to public transport, avoiding environmentally sensitive areas and minimising the impact on the local ecosystem.
Products that contribute directly to LEED certification are marked in bold in the scorecard. With our high-quality natural ventilation systems, D+H can efficiently contribute to obtaining valuable LEED points. We are happy to ensure the best possible energy efficiency and an optimal indoor climate.
Excellence in green and gold: mastering the LEED Gold certification requirements
LEED certification represents a leading position in the field of sustainable construction (green building). A special approval in this system is the Leed Gold certification, which sets high standards for sustainable building practices and environmental compatibility. To achieve such certification, projects must fulfil a comprehensive catalogue of criteria that goes far beyond the basic requirements. With 23 innovative BlueKit systems for lift shaft smoke extraction during the construction of the Opera Tower in Germany, D+H was able to make a decisive contribution to the building's LEED Gold certification.
To the referenceD+H and the LEED certification
D+H's solutions play a vital role in supporting projects seeking LEED certification, particularly in the frame of LEED version 4.1 for BD+C (Building Design and Construction) in the "New Construction" category. Through the preparation of innovative products and solutions, D+H plays a key role in helping projects earn valuable LEED points in three critical credit categories. This support is clearly recognisable on the LEED scorecard, where the criteria in which D+H can make a direct or indirect contribution are specifically highlighted.
By integrating D+H technologies into their projects, clients and architects can not only improve the environmental sustainability of their buildings, but also optimise the indoor quality for users. This leads to a higher score in the context of LEED certification and to long-term benefits in terms of operating costs and property value.
During the construction of the "California Academy of Sciences", we successfully installed 40 high-performance rack and pinion drives from the ZA series and 720 ventilation drives from the VCD series, helping to ensure that the building was later honoured with the LEED Platinum Award.
With D+H at their side, clients and developers have a strong partner who actively supports them in achieving their ambitious goals in the field of green building and the sustainable development of buildings. The coveted LEED Gold certification receives special attention at this point, if desired.
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