Sustainability and LCA assessment for a passive house kindergarten

This kindergarten sustainability assessment of formed part of the SUSPROC research project aimed at developing knowledge and methods for sustainable building processes. The kindergarten case study tested the evaluation of the usability and usefulness of sustainability indicators in target setting and monitoring of the building project. Assessment was conducted in conjunction with representatives of Espoo and with project designers. The study resulted in a complete life cycle inventory involving assessment of greenhouse gases, natural raw material use and energy efficiency on the building site, design options, and operation [1]. The study highlights all relevant sustainability factors that need to be considered according to the sustainability indicators presented in ISO DIS 21929 “Sustainability in building construction” [2]. The research describes the assessed environmental impacts of alternative design options, and of the different areas of the construction work. Consideration was given to all materials used and to HVAC systems, as well as to use in normal kindergarten operation, involving energy consumption, commuting and day care trips and daily waste management. Results of the study highlight the factors that need to be considered when sustainability forms the criterion in building design.