International. The European Commission launched the test phase of Level(s), a new EU framework for building sustainability that aims to help transform the construction sector. It is the first instrument of its kind developed for use throughout Europe.
Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Karmenu Vella said: "Level(s) can help us achieve a sustainable built environment across Europe and contribute to our transition to the circular economy. The launch of this framework for the construction sector comes during the last World Green Building Week, "which shows Europe's global leadership in this field. It is an important step towards a more resource-efficient and competitive European construction sector," he added.
Level(s) is the result of extensive consultation with industry and the public sector, and focuses on a number of performance indicators in different areas such as greenhouse gas emissions, resource and water efficiency, and health and well-being. The aim is to establish a common language on what sustainable construction entails in practice, taking the debate beyond energy efficiency.
The Testing Phase of Level(s) starts now and will run until 2019. In this regard, all stakeholders in the sector are invited to obtain more information in this regard and to try the new instrument. The European Commission will provide technical assistance to all those applying all or parts of Level(s).
