Living Building Challenge
The Living Building Challenge (LBC) is widely considered the most stringent green building standard in the world. LBC, run by the International Living Future Institute, attempts to emulate a flower by encouraging regenerative design. Its requirements are categorized under seven “petals,” or categories.
Through detailed imperatives, LBC leaves little wiggle room. Everything is a prerequisite, unlike in LEED, where project teams can choose among credits.
Living Building Challenge
Deep Dives
Get up to speed on complex topics. You can also earn CEUs and download PDF Spotlight Reports.
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VOCs in LEED and Other Rating Systems
Feature Short
Most building certifications encourage low-emitting and low-VOC products, but they all do it differently. Here’s how it all fits together.
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Why “Zero VOC” Was Never Enough
Feature Short
We used to look for coatings, adhesives, and sealants that contained no VOCs. Great for smog prevention, but IAQ and installer health are also important.
Quick Takes
Jump straight to the essentials with these short explanations of green building concepts.
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Why's That on the Red List?
Explainer
Ever wonder why copper and Neoprene are flagged in some green building red lists and rating systems? Although they aren't the worst offenders, they're flagged for a good reason.
Product Guidance
Unbiased information from our product experts helps you separate green from greenwash.
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In The News
We break news down to the essentials and provide expert analysis.
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Two for One: Growing Food and Solar Energy Together
News Analysis
As more projects are plugging into off-site solar, dual-use installations are gaining favor to minimize adverse impact.
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Case Studies Track Building Code Breakthroughs
News Brief
Need examples of water or energy features that successfully challenged local policy? The Code Innovations Database can help.
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Petal Certifications Help the Living Building Challenge Jump in Scale
News Brief
With recent and upcoming certifications, the Living Building Challenge breaks out of its boutique building typology.
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New Handbook Demystifies the Living Community Challenge
News Analysis
Seven communities are registered and more may be in the pipeline, with ILFI clarifying how existing communities can engage with the Living Community Challenge.
Perspective
Thought-provoking opinions from the most trusted minds in sustainability.
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Just For Fun
Something weird happens every April at BuildingGreen...
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