The Living Building Challenge, sponsored by the International Living Future Institute, encourages architects to design net-positive buildings. Now the organization has issued an enhanced version of the Challenge, Version 3.0. The net-positive building program is a step beyond the idea of net-zero impact, in which the total amount of energy used by a building is equal to the amount of renewable energy created on the site. The net-positive concept actually adds to the renewable resources used, not merely replaces them.

The Living Building Challenge Version 3.0 outlines ambitious goals in several performance categories. Build in the right location, in harmony with community. Supply on-site 105 percent of a project’s energy needs. Supply on-site 100 percent of a building’s water by captured precipitation or recycling. Create a calm atmosphere for health and happiness by creating an uplifting design. And support an equitable world by promoting the best in human and architectural interaction.

To date, five buildings have achieved Living Building Certification. Two hundred more projects have registered for the certification process.

I’m John Howell for 3BL Media.

Video Source: Living Building Challenge 3.0 Calls for Net-Positive Buildings