In light of increasing discussions surrounding life cycle assessment, the DGNB, in collaboration with the Buildings Performance Institute Europe (BPIE), conducted a short study entitled “Building life cycle assessments: market research on costs and capacities in Germany” This study clearly shows that the relevance of this methodology is growing. Many companies have already built up expertise, there are a wide range of training opportunities, and numerous tools are available for calculating building life cycle assessments. At the same time, the survey shows that the consulting costs incurred vary greatly, depending, among other things, on data availability. Potential savings can be achieved through the use of BIM (Building Information Modeling) and better standardization of methods and data bases.
“For anyone who has already dealt with building certification, the life cycle assessment method is nothing new. After all, calculating a building life cycle assessment has been a key requirement since the first version of the DGNB system for new construction was introduced in 2008,” explains Dr. Christine Lemaitre, Chief Executive Officer at DGNB. "Now, however, the topic is becoming even more relevant. With the implementation of the EU Buildings Directive (EPBD), no one in Germany will be able to ignore it, because from 2028, the calculation of life cycle assessments for new buildings will be mandatory."
Market research and survey as the basis for the short study
The aim of the study was to create a sound knowledge and data basis for the debates surrounding the costs and opportunities associated with calculating building life cycle assessments. To this end, market research was conducted on existing training courses and calculation tools. In addition, 62 DGNB auditors who offer life cycle assessment services were surveyed about the costs involved and potential for optimization.
Download the short study
The short study “Building life cycle assessments: Market data on relevance and costs” is available online at https://www.dgnb.de/en/making-the-most-of-dgnb/newsroom/background-information-and-studies