Introducing Level(s)

Using existing standards, the Level(s) framework with its indicators provides a common language for building sustainability, which can be used directly on building projects and portfolios, or as a basis for other initiatives, policies, schemes and actions, to include life cycle thinking and circularity.

Level(s) brings minimum numbers of indicators, with maximum leverage to deliver sustainability.

It tracks performance across the various stages of a building project, to give a complete picture throughout the full lifecycle.

Within the Level(s) framework, each indicator is designed to link the individual building’s impact with sustainability priorities at the European level. This allows Level(s) users to focus on a manageable number of essential concepts and indicators that contribute to achieving EU and national environmental policy goals.

The European Green Deal will improve the health, quality of life and wellbeing of all Europeans, and we should all be involved in making it a reality.

Level(s) is an important tool to help architects, builders and public authorities play their role by improving the buildings we live and work in. Level(s) is designed to improve the sustainability of buildings throughout their lifecycle, helping professionals deliver better buildings – while also speeding Europe’s transition towards a more circular economic model.

EU Commissioner for the Environment, Virginius Sinkevicius

Level(s) is an assessment and reporting framework that provides a common language for sustainability performance of buildings. Level(s) promotes lifecycle thinking for buildings and provides a robust approach to measuring and supporting improvement from design to end of life, for both residential buildings and offices.

Level(s) uses core sustainability indicators, tested with and by the building sector, to measure carbon, materials, water, health and comfort, climate change impacts. It takes into account lifecycle costs and value assessments.

Level(s) is open source and freely available to all.

For all those in the sector, the challenges of cost control and environmental gain are met both by the reduction in energy, materials, and water use; and by future-proofing buildings. For those commissioning, designing, or occupying buildings, Level(s) helps them ensure that their high quality, fit-for-purpose buildings meet their cost and environmental objectives.

Level(s) is divided into three areas, each with its own subject matter and desired outcomes

• resource use and environmental performance during a building’s lifecycle
• health and comfort
• cost, value, and risk

Each of the three areas has its own set of indicators dealing with a building’s environmental, social, and economic long-term sustainability.