Proven sustainable construction sites

This allows Implenia to demonstrate its active role in implementing specific sustainability measures in the construction process on the construction site. "When a project starts late, from service phase 5 onwards, our options for fundamentally improving the building in terms of sustainability are limited, as the main guidelines for the project are already set in early service phases 2 and 3," says Andreas Winde, Head of Sustainability Implenia Building Construction. "With the DGNB 'Sustainable Construction Site' certification, we can also have our construction sites certified at a later project phase, independently of the building."

Construction site certification: added value for customers, construction sites and sustainability goals

Within Implenia, construction site certification contributes directly to the "ecological construction site" sustainability goal and the construction sites themselves can also benefit from the DGNB certificate. For them, the added value is reflected in indirect cost savings, for example: By systematically optimizing their processes, they gain efficiency and risks can be minimized. At the same time, a successful, smooth construction process often ensures greater project acceptance by the local public and also brings added value for the client.

Last but not least, certification is also an important aspect when it comes to winning new contracts. This is because sustainability aspects are now an integral part of requests for proposals and the requirements are constantly increasing.

Because the certificate is awarded by an independent body according to objective and measurable criteria, DGNB certification strengthens the credibility of Implenia's sustainability activities. "Certification enables us to show clients and investors that we are proactively, consistently and successfully implementing and offering sustainability in our projects," emphasizes Andreas Winde.

No major effort thanks to Implenia standards

The certifications to date clearly show that DGNB certification is no big deal for construction sites that comply with Implenia's construction site standards. If the existing processes for setting up and operating construction sites are adhered to, obtaining certification involves little additional effort. More construction sites are to be DGNB-certified in the future. They are supported by the sustainability team in Germany, who first carry out a quick check with the site manager. "In around two hours, we go through all the criteria and find out whether the minimum requirements for certification have been met," says Nisar Assaf, Sustainability Expert at Implenia Hochbau, explaining the procedure.

"After the assessment, we discuss with the construction site where there are opportunities for optimization in order to meet further criteria." Those responsible can draw from a pool of concepts on topics such as low-waste construction sites, noise protection, biodiversity and mold prevention. All of these documents have a standardized structure and contain the minimum requirements as well as suggestions for additional measures. "The certification criteria can often be achieved or even exceeded with measures that are easy to implement - for example, with Implenia standards that are taken for granted, such as regular information for residents or a defibrillator for health and safety on the construction site," says Nisar Assaf.