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The International Living Future Institute's Living Building Challenge™, version 2.1 (May 2012)

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Description A certification system that advocates for transformation in the design, construction, and operation of buildings. In addition to encouraging improved environmental and health performance, it supports the building of structures that are restorative, regenerative, and an integral component of the local ecology and culture.

For more information go to: http://living-future.org/lbcExit EPA Disclaimer
Standard Type1
  • Certification system
Mandatory/ Voluntary2
  • Voluntary
Building Type(s)
  • Commercial: all
  • Industrial: all
  • Mixed use: all
  • Residential: all
Project Type
  • All
Subject Areas
  • Sustainable sites
  • Energy efficiency
  • Water efficiency
  • Materials and resource use
  • Indoor environmental quality
  • Equity
  • Aesthetics
Community Adoption/Use
  • Communities could use this system as the basis for a green building program.
Certification/Compliance Process
  • Projects must meet up to 20 requirements to achieve full certification. However, partial recognition is attainable by meeting the requirements of selected categories.
  • The certification process involves a review of written elements and a site visit by an independent auditor.
Relationship to Other Standards

¹ In the building community, there is no consistent use or definition of the term "standard". EPA uses the term "standard" here in a broad sense to mean "something established by authority, custom, or general consent as a model or example: CRITERION" (Merriam-Webster). EPA uses it as an umbrella term to encompass model codes, rating systems, and other publications that provide criteria for the design, construction, and maintenance of buildings.

² Any standard may be adopted as a voluntary or mandatory program. We indicate here the intent of the authors.

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