Study on Environmental Assessment Tools for Building Green Certification

Abstract Buildings are responsible for a significant portion of global energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. With population growth and urbanization on the rise, we have to rethink the way we build cities to enable greener and smarter living for all. Building with a vision for the future means thinking ahead to reduce our environmental impact. In this context the green certification of buildings is a method of evaluating their energy performance and environmental impact. This study examines environmental assessment tools commonly used for building green certification, including LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), and others used in Romania. These tools evaluate the sustainability of buildings across categories such as energy efficiency, water use, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality, and site selection. Choosing the right tool depends on the specific goals, location, and size of the building. Overall, these assessment tools provide a framework for promoting sustainable building practices.