National Strategies and Regulatory Frameworks
For each of these countries, our partners have detailed:
- National or regional strategies and policies for energy efficiency and climate, particularly in buildings.
- Regulatory frameworks and mandatory or voluntary standards and certification schemes for energy efficiency and sustainability.
Key Certification Schemes and Standards
Our analysis covers various standards, guidelines, and certification schemes relevant to energy-efficient and sustainable construction or renovation. Here are the key schemes identified:
- Austria: klimaaktiv building certification scheme
- Croatia: National mandatory standard for energy performance certification (EPC) and the Green Deal Design Project Guidelines
- Germany: Passivhaus, BNB, and DGNB certification schemes
- Italy: National mandatory EPC standard, Minimum Environmental Requirements for public buildings, CasaClima R, and CasaClima Nature schemes
- Poland: National mandatory EPC standard and Green Building Standard
- Slovenia: Indicators of sustainable construction based on the Level(s) framework
Analysis of Certification Schemes
For each scheme, we examined:
- Scope and application: Types of buildings and interventions, mandatory or voluntary status, and impact in terms of certified projects.
- Governance: Update frequency, governance details, and adaptability for further development.
- Certification process: Evaluation steps and stakeholder involvement.
Sustainability Dimensions and Thematic Areas
Our analysis highlighted that most schemes prioritize environmental indicators, followed by social indicators. Economic indicators are also considered in more than half of the schemes.
Differences in thematic focus were noted:
- Focused Schemes: National mandatory standards, Passivhaus, and CasaClima R focus on energy efficiency, emissions, and indoor environmental quality (IEQ).
- Comprehensive Schemes: BNB, DGNB, Green Deal Design Project Guidelines, Slovenian Indicators, and Italian Minimum Environmental Criteria cover a broader range of thematic areas contributing to sustainable building performance.
Conclusion
This initial analysis underscores the diverse approaches to energy efficiency and sustainability across Central Europe. By understanding and comparing these frameworks, the MESTRI-CE project aims to foster better strategies and tools for sustainable building practices, tailored to the unique needs of each region.