A new ISO standard has the goal of optimizing building use to realize a structure’s full potential throughout its life cycle.
ISO 20887, Sustainability in buildings and civil engineering works, pertains to design for disassembly and adaptability. It includes principles, requirements, and guidance to help owners, architects, engineers, and any other party involved in the life cycle of a building to improve its sustainability, according to an ISO news release.
The standard assists users by extending the building’s life through effective adaptability that makes it suitable for another use; and by optimizing its resources at the end of life through effective disassembly, reuse, recycling, and disposal of its materials. “The result is reduced carbon emissions through optimal use of the building, lower costs through longer lifespan and better use of resources, and less waste going into landfills,” the release states.
“Users get the most benefit from disassembly and adaptability guidance if they consider its integration into the very early stages of the building works project,” said Philippe Osset, chair of the ISO subcommittee that developed the standard.
Related Stories
Concrete | Aug 2, 2016
Concrete Association builds case against cross-laminated timber
The campaign asserts that not enough is known about CLT in construction
Seismic Design | Jul 28, 2016
Risk of man-made earthquakes now factor in seismic hazard analysis
Significant risk increases seen in some areas of the U.S.
Resiliency | Jul 27, 2016
New York’s resilience plans not taking long-term view, critics charge
Continued waterfront development may be regretted later this century.
Green Specifications | Jul 26, 2016
New Miami Beach law requires LEED certification on projects larger than 7,000 sf
LEED Silver the prescribed standard on buildings larger than 50,000 sf.
Energy | Jul 25, 2016
Michigan law provides local governments with flexible energy conservation financing
Allows cities to fund projects without adding debt.
Contractors | Jul 15, 2016
Trade unions, contractors call for maximum penalty in construction worker death case
‘Sick and tired’ of lawbreaking contractors defining public perception.
Multifamily Housing | Jul 14, 2016
Portland, Ore., City Council approves construction excise tax for affordable housing
Expected to raise $8 million annually on commercial and residential projects.
Drones | Jul 13, 2016
FAA issues final rule on commercial use of drones
The rule covers commercial uses for drones that weigh less than 55 pounds, and it takes effect Aug. 29.
Codes and Standards | Jul 12, 2016
OSHA raises maximum civil penalties by 78%
Applies to infractions that occurred after Nov. 2, 2015.
School Construction | Jul 11, 2016
Fight over school funding in Arizona headed to court
Legislature accused of ignoring 1994 ruling ordering state to pick up some of the costs.