Abstract

Energy Performance Certificates should be vital in enhancing buildings’ energy performance, the health benefits for the occupants, and the environmental impacts. The construction sector consumes 50% (by weight) of the materials used in the European Union and is responsible for 30% of the waste generated. These are very high figures, but the potential for savings is significant. Additionally, good indoor air quality levels in buildings are among the essential benefits and drivers as they lead to better health and comfort of the occupants. The general purpose of ventilation in buildings is to provide healthy air for breathing by diluting the pollutants in the building and removing the contaminants. This study analyzed the perspectives of the new Energy Performance of Buildings Directive proposal concerning health benefits and environmental impacts of energy renovation of buildings. The European Commission now considers, on the Energy Performance Certificates, the Global Warming Potential as a function of emissions over the entire life cycle. Furthermore, most existing buildings will inevitably require significant energy renovations to become more energy efficient, improving thermal comfort and indoor air quality.

Keywords:Embodied energy; Energy performance of buildings directive; Energy performance certificates; Environmental impacts; Health benefits