Costa Rica. A new certification model seeks that new buildings that are built in the areas of the tropics are declared sustainable taking into account environmental, social and economic requirements.
This system was developed by the Institute of Technical Standards of Costa Rica (Inteco). The new certification will reward the sustainability of the designs, the reduction of the environmental impact of the construction, use of efficient technologies, reuse of resources, consultation of all stakeholders, use of labor in the area, congruence with landscaping, integral management of waste and the use of renewable sources, among others.
To obtain the certification, it is necessary to have a coverage of social inclusion, fair treatment and safety to the workers and occupants of the building.
In addition, criteria must be followed for the minimization of risks, use and exploitation of existing infrastructure and evaluate the conservation of the cultural and biological heritage of the environment.
At the moment the certification covers only the design of the works. However, Inteco is working to extend it, during 2014, to the construction, operation, maintenance and remodeling processes of the construction project.
