IPLO publishes information sheet on building components in the environmental performance calculation
For a correct and unambiguous environmental performance calculation for new-build projects, it is important that it is clear which building components must be included when determining the environmental impact. The Information Point Living Environment (IPLO) has published an information sheet providing further clarification of this delineation. IPLO is the government’s knowledge centre that provides guidance on the Environment Act, the Digital System for the Environment Act (DSO) and regulations for the living environment. Through its website and helpdesk, IPLO offers practical information to support the correct application of regulations.
Environmental performance requirements in legislation
Environmental performance requirements are laid down in the Decree on the Living Environment (Bbl). IPLO explains that the Bbl sets requirements for the environmental performance of a residential use function, an office building and associated ancillary use functions. The environmental performance is determined in accordance with the Assessment Method Environmental Performance of Construction Works.
It is important that it is clear what is and is not considered part of the construction works. This concerns not only components within the building, but also components in and attached to the building and certain components outside the building, insofar as these are considered part of the construction works. The IPLO information sheet explains how this delineation must be applied when determining the environmental performance. In doing so, IPLO addresses questions from practice about the scope of the environmental performance calculation.
Role of the Dutch Environmental Database
The Dutch Environmental Database forms the collective database for environmental data used in environmental performance calculations. Clarity about the delineation of the construction works supports the careful and consistent use of this data in recognised calculation tools.
The IPLO explanation therefore supports designers, consultants, LCA practitioners, municipalities and other involved parties in the correct application of the Assessment Method in practice.
What is IPLO?
The Information Point Living Environment (IPLO) is the government’s knowledge centre for the physical living environment. IPLO supports professionals in applying the Environment Act, the Digital System for the Environment Act and related regulations, such as the Decree on the Living Environment.
Through explanations, information sheets and practice-oriented information, IPLO helps users apply legislation and regulations in a consistent and correct manner.
More information on national regulations for environmental performance in new-build projects is available via IPLO.
