In 2022, the building sector was responsible for 37% of global CO2 emissions. To illustrate this colossal impact, an increase of just 1% in construction-related emissions is equivalent to adding 10 million cars to cover the Earth's circumference*.
In the face of theclimate emergency, sustainable construction and renovation have become priorities. However, the current situation remains worrying. As regulations such as the RE2020 set ever more demanding standards, turning to environmental labels- genuine guarantees of greener, more responsible construction - is becoming key.
An overview of the main environmental labels
BBCA (Low Carbon Building) label
This label aims to minimize the carbon footprint of buildings by taking into accounttheir entire life cycle, from construction to deconstruction. It assesses CO2 emissions linked to materials, energy consumption and carbon storage potential.
BBCA Renovation label
Extending low-carbon building requirements to renovation projects, the BBCA Rénovation label focuses on reducing carbon emissions. It encourages the use of low-carbon materials and improvedenergy efficiency in existing buildings.
Biodiversity label
Valuing projects that incorporate solutions that promote biodiversity, this label encourages the creation of green spaces and the preservation of natural habitats. It assesses the project's impact on local flora and fauna and proposes compensatory measures to limit negative effects.
Effinergie Label 2017
Designed to guarantee very low energy consumption for new buildings, the Effinergie 2017 label is based on strict performance criteria. It imposes requirements in terms of insulation, ventilation and renewable energy management to achieve high energy efficiency.
BBC Effinergie Rénovation 2024 label
The new BBC Effinergie label sets high targets for the energy renovation of existing buildings, aiming to achieve performance close to that of new builds. It encourages the use of high-performance insulation solutions and efficient heating and ventilation systems.
Biosourced Building Label
This label promotes the use of bio-sourced materials, derived from renewable resources, in the construction of buildings. Here, a minimum percentage of bio-sourced materials in the building's structure and finishes is imposed, helping to reduce theenvironmental footprint.
E+C- label, in addition to RE2020 regulations
The E+C- label reinforces the RE2020 regulations by setting even stricter criteria for buildings in terms of energy performance and carbon footprint reduction. While the RE2020 imposes high standards for energy efficiency and the use of renewable energies, the E+C- label goes further by specifically assessing the ability of buildings to :
be energy positive (E+);
reduce CO2 (C-) emissions over their entire life cycle.
In this way, the label makes it easier to anticipate future environmental requirements by encouraging builders to adopt more sustainable practices. Beyond respecting these green practices, the E+C- label promotes the transition to greener construction, while ensuring greater resilience in the face of climate challenges.
When labels come to life in the field
GECINA's renovation of Peugeot's historic headquarters is part of an eco-responsible approach. As proof, it has been awarded triple certification: HQE exceptional level, LEED and WELL, as well as the BiodiverCity label.
The 460 m² glass roof, designed by Viry, combines technical innovation with compliance with the most stringent environmental standards. The project represents a concrete step forward for sustainability and biodiversity, turning ecological commitments into real action on the ground.
Discover the project right here!
Environmental labels: what if BIM also had a role to play?
The technologies associated with BIM (Building Modeling Information) represent a real opportunity to monitor and optimize the energy performance of buildings, while ensuring their compliance with environmental labels. And for good reason, BIM offers :
precise, real-time monitoring of building consumption;
a better record of each stage of the project, with identification of the materials used and assessment of waste - the impact of construction can therefore be established with greater precision;
centralization of all project data, enabling precise planning and simulation of energy performance right from the design phase;
data archiving and accessibility throughout the building's lifecycle, facilitating maintenance and guaranteeing sustainable compliance with environmental requirements.
Sefaira: the SketchUp module dedicated to energy compliance
Sefaira, integrated with SketchUp, enables you to obtain the energy performance of your building in just a few minutes. The tool integrates :
energy consumption and CO2 emissions;
thermal comfort ;
brightness level ;
the efficiency of a building's HVAC system.
This solution adapts to the needs of the various stakeholders involved in design studies and pre-projects. Sefaira lets you choose the optimum strategies by comparing massing, plan and envelope options. In this way, you comply with environmental label criteria.
Conclusion
Digitization represents a major opportunity for the construction industry to take the next step towards more sustainable construction and renovation. The BIM approach provides the transparency and visibility needed by players wishing to move the yardsticks. Ready to get started? Find out what Trimble Construction solutions can do for you.
*UN Environment Program, " Report on the Global State of Buildings and Construction ", May 2024.
