Sustainable construction refers to an approach to the design, construction and operation of buildings that seeks to reduce their impact on the environment, as well as protect the health and well-being of occupants.
Its goal is to create efficient, healthy and durable built environments that respect the environment and meet the present and future needs of individuals and communities.
Energy efficiency focuses on maximizing the performance of the building's energy resources while reducing their consumption.
It involves designing, constructing and operating buildings using the least possible amount of energy, while providing comfort and functionality to occupants.
Some key practices include the incorporation of renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaic solar panels and wind energy systems. Also, the use of an efficient lighting system, by adopting LED lighting technologies and motion sensors. The use of insulating materials in walls, ceilings and floors, by reducing the need for heating and cooling, becomes another widely used energy efficiency practice.
In addition, the orientation of the building, the selection of suitable construction materials and the maximum use of natural light are aspects of passive design that can improve energy efficiency without relying on active technologies.
In addition to reducing the environmental impact of the building, adopting these practices can also generate significant savings in operating and service costs in the long term.
The conservation and efficient use of water focuses on minimizing the consumption of drinking water and maximizing the reuse of gray and rainwater in order to contribute to the conservation of the water resource and mitigate the negative environmental impact associated with its use.
It seeks to reduce water consumption by minimizing the amount of water used in building construction and operation processes, through the installation of low-flow devices in faucets, shower heads and toilets, as well as the use of efficient irrigation systems.
It promotes the collection and reuse of rainwater, stored in tanks and other collection systems, as well as the treatment of wastewater (gray and black water), for subsequent use in non-drinkable applications, such as watering green areas, cleaning surfaces or recharging non-potable water systems.
The use of sustainable materials focuses on choosing materials that have a low environmental impact, that are efficient in the use of resources, healthy for the occupants and that adapt to climate change.
This may involve choosing renewable or recycled and recyclable materials.
Materials that optimize the use of natural resources, such as those that require less energy or water in their manufacture, or that generate less waste during their useful life. Using high-quality materials that are durable will also help extend the life of the building, while reducing the need for frequent maintenance and replacement.
It is also encouraged to choose materials that generate less waste when building, installing and demolishing.
An important aspect is that materials with low emissions of volatile organic compounds and other harmful chemicals are considered, as well as those that promote indoor air quality and acoustic and thermal comfort in order to contribute to the health and well-being of the occupants.
It also promotes the use of materials that have thermal insulation properties to reduce energy demand for heating and cooling, and those that are resistant to extreme weather conditions.
Waste management focuses on reducing, reusing and recycling materials and waste that are generated throughout all stages of the life cycle of a construction project, from its design and selection of materials to its demolition and dismantling.
This helps conserve natural resources, reduce pollution and promote a more sustainable built environment development.
Indoor air quality focuses on creating healthy and comfortable indoor environments for occupants, by controlling and minimizing the presence of pollutants such as volatile organic compounds, formaldehyde, tobacco smoke, allergens, dust, and others.
This can be achieved through the selection of suitable construction materials, the implementation of proper ventilation and the use of efficient air filtration systems.
Regular monitoring and maintenance programs are implemented to ensure that ventilation and air filtration systems operate optimally and meet indoor air quality standards. For example, regularly clean air ducts or replace air filters.
Versatile and adaptable design in sustainable construction focuses on creating buildings that are able to efficiently adapt to needs and conditions over time, promoting flexibility, modularity, accessibility and resilience.
This involves designing flexible spaces and systems that can be easily modified, expanded or reconfigured to meet the changing needs of occupants and the environment. For example, you can incorporate mobile walls, versatile furniture, spaces that can be divided or combined, adaptable modules, systems and technologies, among others.
Accessibility and equity in sustainable construction focuses on creating built environments that are accessible, inclusive and equitable for all people.
For example, ramps, elevators, wide corridors or parking spaces reserved for people with reduced mobility are installed; or tactile signage and communication devices accessible to people with reduced vision or hearing are incorporated.
This improves the quality of life and well-being of occupants, while contributing to creating more just, resilient and sustainable communities.
EDGE certification is one of the fastest and most effective ways to create efficient buildings, reduce energy, water, and material consumption, and increase property resale value. Developed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank Group, EDGE helps real estate projects lower their environmental impact, reduce operating costs, and support decarbonization efforts. With a streamlined and measurable process, EDGE has become a strategic certification for developers and investors seeking sustainability, profitability, and market differentiation.
Sustainable certifications in Mexico are gaining prominence as a key tool for companies and projects that seek to demonstrate their environmental, social and governance commitment. They are no longer limited to construction alone, but encompass complete processes, operations, products and business models.
Discover how environmental certifications, energy efficiency and sustainable buildings increase the resale value of a property and reduce its environmental impact.
CDMX
Monterey
