DGNB Certification System
Components of the DGNB System
The DGNB certification system relies on multiple components for success:
- The criteria guidelines establish the scientific boundary conditions and the target values for a new criterion
- The applicable scheme defines the occupancy-specific adaptation of the criteria with respect to the tools and targets used
- Each scheme makes use of an evaluation matrix to calculate the total score based on the individual results of each criterion and their assigned weighting
- The documentation guidelines give the auditors information about the correct implementation of the criteria guidelines and their integration in the evaluation process
- Consistent data sets form the basis for the determination of life cycle costs and life cycle assessment
- The process is supplemented by the guidelines for the training of auditors.
System Adaptation Procedure
After the technical committee of a DGNB partner organization has determined the work required and the schedule for the system adaptation, the adaption of the criteria guidelines is undertaken, with the support of a DGNB representative. Following the approval and release of the profiles by the technical committee, the Beta-Version of the system is brought into use in a pilot phase, while in parallel, the auditors are trained. After 10-15 projects are certified, the pilot phase is evaluated in conjunction with the International Board. The criteria are be optimized on the basis of the evaluation, and finally the system is brought to market.
System Adaptation in Detail
The so-called international core system of the DGNB forms the basis for all adaptations. Its criteria are all based on European standards, and the international data sets required for the life cycle assessment are also made available for this purpose. The evaluation guidelines and evaluation structure of this core system remain the same for all schemes and country-specific system adaptations. This applies in particular to the structure of the evaluation matrix, the target-oriented nature of the evaluation, and the general ease of use of the system. The adaptation is achieved through a regional customization of the applicable criteria through the local partner organization. Global acceptance and compatibility must be carefully considered. The DGNB International Board guarantees the high quality level of the adaptation.