Environmental quality
Considers factors such as carbon footprint, resource consumption and material choices, making the building’s environmental impact part of the decision-making process.
Sustainability management / DGNB
A shared basis for sustainable choices
DGNB certification.
Sustainability is assessed as a whole – from materials and people to economics and how the building is used.
Understanding DGNBDGNB / Overview
A broader view of sustainability.
DGNB stands for Deutsche Gesellschaft für Nachhaltiges Bauen. It is a holistic certification system for sustainability in construction and urban development, administered in Denmark by DGNB Danmark.
The system brings several considerations together in a single assessment. The criteria that apply and how they are weighted depend on the specific scheme and its current version. Goals and documentation requirements should therefore be established with the particular project being assessed in mind.
Explore the six overarching qualities
Focus areas / DGNB
Six perspectives. One building.
The six overarching qualities provide a way to discuss different aspects of sustainability. The specific criteria and their relevance vary between DGNB schemes.
Economic quality
Covers factors such as whole-life costs and value creation – not just the cost of constructing the building.
Social quality
Includes indoor climate, accessibility and architectural value for the people who use the building.
Technical quality
Considers factors such as durability, acoustics and the scope for maintenance throughout the building’s life.
Process quality
Focuses on the quality of the construction process and collaboration between the project parties.
Site quality
Covers factors such as location, transport options and the relationship with the local community, where these are included in the scheme.
From ambition to practice
The same ambition. Different starting points.
DGNB takes its starting point from what is being assessed. A new project and a building in operation therefore do not necessarily require the same basis for assessment.
New buildings and major renovations
Here, sustainability considerations can be incorporated into design and construction. The assessment relates to the planned or renovated building and the documentation required by the applicable scheme throughout the process.
Read about DGNB for new buildings and major renovations at DGNB DanmarkBuildings in operation
Here, the starting point is an existing building and how it actually operates. This shifts the focus towards ongoing use, operational documentation and opportunities for improvement, rather than choices for a future construction project.
Read about DGNB for buildings in operation at DGNB DanmarkAn informed starting point
Guidance, requirements and documentation.
From criteria to certification.
A DGNB assessment is based on the criteria and documentation of the relevant scheme. Certification levels found within DGNB include Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze. This does not mean that all four levels are available under every scheme.
The specific scheme sets the framework
Any sector-specific distinctions or supplementary awards are separate options – not additional general rating levels. Always check the current scheme manual for new buildings and major renovations or buildings in operationbefore setting your goals: the applicable qualities, levels, requirements and any supplementary awards may differ.
Let’s talk
What does DGNB mean for your project?
Are you planning a new building, a renovation or work on an existing building? Let’s discuss your project and where sustainability considerations can be incorporated early in the process.