In contrast to other sectors, the building sector has the possibility to realise a balanced CO2 accounting itself through the direct energy generation on site. For this reason, DGNB also excludes compensation through the purchase of CO2 certificates or similar measures. The only thing to do is to exploit the existing potential in order to achieve the possible CO2 savings.
FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENTS OF THE DGNB DEFINITION FOR THE CARBON NEUTRALITY OF BUILDINGS: ■ Goal is a CO2 balance of 0 or <0 for all building types ■ User electricity (so-called plug loads) must also be taken into account ■ All energy sources are considered with the CO2 emissions actually caused
Neutral or rather positive?
■ No compensation measures to offset CO2 emissions
In the question regarding the climate action contribution of buildings, there is some contention as to whether neutral is enough. In the accounting mentioned, the term neutrality means the same as the mathematical target figure zero as a minimum requirement. If we depart from the point of view of pure accounting, ‘neutral’ is an insufficient expression for what buildings which are operated carbon neutrally today actually achieve: a positive contribution to climate action. The DGNB has set itself the goal of highlighting exemplary projects, presenting their success factors and inspiring others. This is why the DGNB Climate Positive Award was created. Buildings with carbon neutral operation verified by measured consumption data, qualify for this award. Climate positive buildings actively contribute to protecting the climate and support the energy transition by avoiding more CO2 emissions than they cause. With this award, DGNB wants to acknowledge the creative drive and courage of these examples and send a clear signal to the building sector and politics: we can and must already build today in a way that will be the standard for existing buildings by 2050 at the latest.
Buildings with carbon neutral operation verified by measured consumption data are eligible to receive the DGNB award ‘Climate positive’.
PAGE 10 DGNB GERMAN SUSTAINABLE BUILDING COUNCIL