Encouraging the use of ethanol or biodiesel23 vehicles and searching for energy efficiency are some of the actions aimed at offsetting the carbon footprint.
events. Another example is the air quality management, which may include building more bicycle paths that provide access to major event sites, for example. The “green building” concept may be applied to the construction of stadiums and hotels. For example, the structural materials to be used should not be harmful to health and the environment, should originate from sustainable sources and prioritize energy consumption; the technologies used should reduce water consumption and promote water reuse; energy consumption should be minimized (with intelligent refrigeration, lighting and ventilation systems) and waste should be managed in both the construction and operation phases. Reduce, reuse and recycle The sustainable measures also
involve waste management, based on the three Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle), water and sewer management, focusing on reducing the use, and also the policy on engagements: contracts should prioritize suppliers that adopt sustainable management principles for their services and products. Certifications – There are several certification criteria that ensure “green buildings”. Projects and construction of stadiums and quarters may receive an internationally recognized certification (Leed, Acqua, Breeam, etc.). In Brazil, two environmental certifications focusing on construction (project and building process) are currently used: Acqua, created in France, already adapted for Brazil; and Leed (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), a U.S. certification. Bream (Building
Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), in turn, created in the U.K., is being introduced in the Brazilian market. ISO 14001, the standards that set guidelines for corporate environmental management, have been gradually adopted by real estate developers, especially after the ISO 9000 culture grew stronger. Conversely, large organizations and/or institutions, which aim to perform their construction processes with environmental and social responsibility, tend to internally develop customized and personalized certification standards. In this case, it is necessary to recognize the essential involvement of an outside auditing agent.