DGNB (which is short for Deutsche Gesellschaft für Nachhaltiges Bauen) is a building’s certification consisting of documentation packages. This certification covers the entire building after it is built. We have chosen to have this certification done in cooperation with Danish Engineers Ramboll, and have so far a documentation package on the façade system called VIDAR Teglspån. But there’s definitely more.
DGNB is intended as a tool to simplify the architect’s work. The DGNB certification acts as a points system that runs from 0 to 100, each contributing points to the overall image.
Typically, a construction project is started up to several years before the materials are actually going into use. If, using documentation packages, can deliver as much details about the materials as possible from the very beginning of, we make the work easier for the architects.
A DGNB certification and a documentation package are not an indication that a material contributes only positively. It just documents where you contribute. This means that you can easily create a construction project that doesn’t score very high on points.
However, dgbn can currently be seen as an expression of the most sustainable thinking that exists. You get more points by providing a construction project that is as sustainable as possible. That is, many points are also very much linked to greater sustainability and higher quality. At the same time, of course, comfort, indoor climate and many other things are also taken into account in a construction project, and therefore there are many criteria to judge on the basis.
The total points allocation is a picture of all the products and criteria in total construction, and the more points, the better. It can be difficult to say what the formula of the optimal building is. But with DGNB we get as close as possible today because the certification looks at a building as a whole.
If you want to look at the product level, the certification is Cradle to Cradle more relevant.
If you are interested in learning more on how Komproment products can contribute towards a DGNB Certification, please contact us for further information.