DGNB certification is an assessment system for sustainable building developed by the German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB). It takes into account not only ecological aspects, but also economic, social and functional criteria in order to ensure the holistic sustainability of buildings. The system assesses buildings over their entire life cycle, from the planning and construction phase through to utilisation and possible dismantling. The certification covers several categories such as energy efficiency, resource conservation, life cycle costs and user comfort. It is divided into different levels, from bronze to platinum, with the highest award being given to particularly sustainable buildings. DGNB certification ensures that a building is not only environmentally friendly, but also economically and socially acceptable. It thus promotes the development of buildings that have a positive long-term impact on both their users and the environment. The DGNB is internationally recognised and an important part of sustainable building practice.
Other awards within the DGNB system are the DGNB Diamond, the DGNB ‘Climate Positive’ award and the DGNB Special Ecolabel award. These are additional awards that are awarded together with the regular DGNB certificate.