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Raising architectural vision: using ISO 14001 and EMAS certification for sustainable construction materials

Photo: 4B Arkitekter. BREEAM certified Hollenderkvartalet Oslo. Photograper: Tove Lauluten

Built-in Carbon Footprint

Operational carbon emissions are reduced through low-energy design and renewable energy use, and we are already familiar with “net zero energy buildings.” However, embodied emissions—locked into materials—are becoming the largest challenge. Drastic reduction of embodied carbon is critical to achieving net zero by 2040. The latest “net zero carbon buildings” fully account for material-related emissions.

Just three materials—concrete (11%), steel (10%), and aluminium (2%)—account for 23% of global emissions, mostly from construction. Many studies show that in heavy structures, cement and steel alone often represent over 80% of total embodied energy and carbon.

There is significant potential to reduce embodied carbon and other environmental impacts in high-impact materials through policy, design, material selection, and specifications (Architecture 2030, 2018). Beyond carbon emissions from production, resource depletion, pollution, and waste generation contribute heavily to the environmental footprint of materials throughout their lifecycle.

Exploring Environmental Impacts of ISO 14001 and EMAS Collaboration: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis

The meta-analysis “ISO 14001, EMAS and environmental performance” (Artizar Erauskin-Tolosa et al., 2019) shows a positive impact of ISO 14001 and EMAS certifications on corporate environmental performance. It identifies moderating factors such as enhanced environmental innovation and benefits for companies with established certification practices. Based on 53 distinct studies across diverse contexts, the research confirms these certifications positively influence sustainability outcomes.

Deeper analysis reveals nuances that further amplify benefits: manufacturers integrating environmental innovation tend to gain more from certification. Additionally, firms with mature certification systems show marked improvements in the sustainability profile of their construction products.

These findings encourage architects and engineers to prioritise sourcing from certified manufacturers in sustainable projects.

Whether choosing eco-friendly materials for structures, cladding, or interiors, applying these certifications can elevate architectural quality while minimising environmental impact.

Architectural expertise is evolving; merging form with environmental responsibility is increasingly vital. Various materials and construction methods can achieve design goals—but they must align with genuine sustainability, i.e., the real environmental impact embedded in materials.

By selecting construction product manufacturers committed to ISO 14001 and EMAS principles, architects can lead a paradigm shift and drive innovation.

ISO 9001 – A Tool for Quality Assurance in Construction Products

Selecting products from ISO 9001-certified suppliers gives architects a vital tool to ensure consistent, documented quality.

ISO 9001 is an international quality management standard requiring systems for continuous improvement, risk management, and customer satisfaction.

Certification involves independent third-party audits, providing assurance that processes are genuinely followed.

Though certification doesn’t guarantee flawless products, it increases the likelihood of stable deliveries, fewer deviations, and better documentation—crucial factors in complex construction projects.

Reflection: ISO Certification – Valuable Tool or False Assurance?

ISO certifications are widespread tools demonstrating compliance with established standards for quality, environment, health & safety. Certificates like ISO 9001 (quality management) and ISO 14001 (environmental management) signal control, structure, and improvement commitment, often used in tenders and supply chains.

But how reliable are these certifications? What should professionals like architects be aware of?

Advantages:

  • Standardised systems for management and improvement across industries and borders.

  • Independent third-party audits provide objectivity and credibility.

  • Increased trust and transparency simplify supplier evaluation.

  • Competitive advantage, as many clients require or prefer ISO-certified partners.

Challenges:

  • Variable audit quality; some certification bodies conduct superficial audits, risking trust erosion.

  • Lack of government oversight unlike finance or accounting sectors; environmental compliance relies heavily on private actors and market forces.

  • Risk of symbolic certifications with no real practical effect.

  • Conflict of interest risks: ISO 17021 forbids certifiers from performing both certification and internal audits for the same client to protect impartiality.

Ensuring Credible Certification

To confirm ISO certification credibility:

  • Verify accreditation by a recognised accreditation body.

  • Use open registries like Certiget’s ISO Certifying Bodies Catalog for reviews and track records.

  • Request audit reports and non-conformity handling as part of supplier monitoring.

ISO 17021 mandates that certification bodies cannot conduct both certification and internal audits for the same client—even within the same corporate group or different countries. A mandatory two-year cooling-off period before certifying a former consultancy client reinforces impartiality.

Management Systems + Product Certification – A Strong but Complex Combination

ISO 9001 and other management systems ensure internal control and continuous improvement but say little about product technical performance or compliance.

Combining management system certification with independent product certification—such as third-party verified construction product labels (e.g., Nordic Swan Ecolabel, controlled EPDs for GHG emissions)—provides stronger assurance of both process and product quality.

However, the landscape is complex: over 460 ISO standards exist globally, alongside numerous national and private schemes. Credibility varies widely between countries, sectors, and certifiers.

Architects and buyers must develop expertise to navigate this landscape and discern genuine quality assurance from symbolic or commercially driven certifications.

Corruption Perceptions Index 2024

The latest index (February 2025) shows over two-thirds of 180 countries score below 50/100, indicating high perceived corruption. The global average remains 43. Top performers in 2024 include Denmark (90), Finland (88), Singapore (84), New Zealand (83), and Luxembourg and Norway (81).

This ranking reflects political and structural challenges. Incorporating CPI into governance assessment tools can improve political accountability and reform focus.

For more, visit Transparency International’s official site:
Increased Competence Is Essential

Facing growing demands on quality, environment, and documentation, architects, contractors, and other construction professionals must strengthen their sustainability and certification knowledge. Competence shortages remain a key barrier; we encourage all organisations to invest in sustainability training.

Conclusion: We Must Start Somewhere

In a complex and demanding world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Yet progress requires a start—prioritising internationally recognised management systems like ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 is a solid first step. This signals responsibility, maturity, and a commitment to systematic, transparent quality and sustainability.

By choosing documented, verifiable systems, architects and stakeholders send a strong message of credibility and professionalism—to clients, partners, and society. Collectively, this elevates the industry and better equips us for future challenges.

Thank you for taking responsibility—together we build a better home for generations to come!

References

 

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