IMPACT OF INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY CRITERIA ON THE CERTIFICATION OF SUSTAINABLE OFFICE BUILDINGS IN CHILE

Abstract

Green building rating systems focus mainly on environmental criteria of energy savings and reduction of greenhouse emissions. However, there i san increased preocupation on social sustainability oriented towards health and well-being of boccupants through criteria of indoor environmental quality (IEQ). This article is based on a comparative analysis of the chilean system CES and the international system LEED, evaluating the impact of IEQ criteria both in the design of the systems and in a sample of certified office buildings in Chile. The results indicate CES gives much greater relevance to the CAI dimension than LEED. Within the subcategories, both systems prioritize air quality criteria over thermal and visual comfort. The database of certified buildings in Chile indicates that the criteria most used by LEED focus on air quality through lowemission materials strategies and construction management, while CES certified buildings prioritize design strategies that address thermal, lighting, acoustic and air quality aspects.