This Directive shall enter into force six [months]* after its publication in the official newspaper La Gaceta.
Given at the Presidency of the Republic. San José, on the fifth day of the month of June of the year two thousand nineteen.
For a better understanding of the Sustainability criteria for application in new constructions and the Sustainability criteria for application in existing constructions, rehabilitations, remodelings, adaptations, expansions (Anexo 2 and Anexo 3 respectively), the following shall be understood by:
Constructive adaptation: constructive intervention carried out on an existing building, for the purpose of adjusting or adapting it to required specifications, in order for it to satisfy the required needs.
(constructive): constructive intervention that constitutes an additional investment to increase equipment, or the area of built infrastructure.
Passive climate control: consists of managing the internal conditions of a building, including temperature, without consuming external energy, making maximum use of the geographic and climatic conditions of the site where the building is located.
Certification: procedure by which a party assures in writing that a product, process, or service conforms to specified requirements.
Third-party certification: procedure by which a third party assures in writing that a product, process, or service conforms to specified requirements.
Volatile organic compounds: are all those hydrocarbons that are present in a gaseous state at normal room temperature or that are very volatile at that temperature. It can be considered a VOC any organic compound that at 20ºC has a vapor pressure of 0.01 kPa or more, or an equivalent volatility under the particular conditions of use.
Construction: the art of building any structure that is fixed or incorporated into land; includes building works, reconstruction, alteration, or expansion that imply permanence.
Biological corridor: biological corridors are areas that connect two or more natural regions. They can be narrow strips of vegetation, riverside forests, live fences, plantations, remnant vegetation or large extensions, which facilitate the linkage between natural populations or the flow of individuals through it.
Modular design: is the design based on grid modulation of spaces that allow for optimization of construction time and, because they are transportable, disassemblable, and reorganizable, allow for promoting multiple functionalities and their reuse by generating a new use different from the one for which they were created.
Landscape design: is the design intended to modify the visible physical characteristics of a space, whether urban or rural, to manage the landscape with the purpose of conserving it, protecting it, making it more welcoming, or endowing it with greater aesthetics in the eyes of the people who contemplate or use it.
Ecosystem: is the set formed by living beings and the non-living elements of the environment and the vital relationship established between them.
Building: construction intended for any activity, whether habitation, work, storage, or protection of belongings, etc. Privately used buildings: Those that do not permanently house, nor regularly serve as a meeting place for, a considerable number of people.
Surroundings: space surrounding a building and that interacts with it.
Invasive species: is an exotic species or one not native to the present ecosystem, whose introduction causes or may cause economic or environmental harm or damage to human health.
Passive strategies: consists of the use of architectural practices in order to obtain buildings that achieve their environmental conditioning through natural procedures. Using the sun, breezes and winds, the characteristics inherent to construction materials, orientation, among others.
Habitat: is the place composed of a sum of physical and geographical factors, occupied by a population that can be of any type: animals, insects, people, fish, etc. The habitat is the place where the most important conditions are met for a species of living being to live there. The habitat is part of the ecosystem.
Inclement weather: a rigorous, unpleasant, and difficult-to-bear atmospheric phenomenon, such as cold, heat, strong wind, torrential rain, among others.
Thermal mass: Set of materials with heat storage capacity that forms part of the walls, floors, and pillars of a building. It is the capacity of a material or structure to absorb heat from the surrounding space and store it for a certain time.
Improvement (constructive): constructive intervention introduced into existing buildings, replacing certain parts or pieces so that it better fulfills its function. It is a conditioning of an existing building to better fulfill its function.
Reflectivity: the relationship between the incident ray and the radiation reflected by it on a surface.
Rehabilitation: constructive intervention to recover a building, in order to enable it for the initial use for which it was designed. It includes a broad series of practices of various types.
Recovery: Synonym for rehabilitation.
Remodeling: constructive intervention that constitutes a substantial change for the purpose of modifying, transforming, or altering a building, whether through changes in its general structure or in certain specific components, meaning changing a part of the building's character.
Renovation: constructive intervention to make new a constructed space without changing its original use.
Foundation systems: systems that are located just below the lower part of a structure and that rest directly on the ground, transmitting the building loads through vertical compression.
Efficient irrigation techniques: irrigation techniques that reduce losses from the source to the plants that consume the irrigation water. Generally include techniques such as drip irrigation, micro-sprinklers, and others with high water-use efficiency.
Third party: person or body recognized as independent of the parties involved, in regard to the issuance of certifications.
Natural or passive ventilation: is the technique by which the entry of outside air into a building is allowed through natural (non-mechanical) means; likewise, it is managing the internal conditions of a building.
Vista of interest: refers to the view from the infrastructure work, comprising a part of the territory, whose character is the result of the action and interaction of natural and human factors and that provides a feeling of greater value due to its aesthetic, cultural, or architectural interest.
Name of the institution:
Report date:
Construction project:
Person responsible for the evaluation:
Name:
| CRITERION | STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE IT | APPLICATION | OBSERVATIONS | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | YES | NO | | | | | | 1 | Basic external concepts are incorporated into the design for its good performance. | The architecture must be harmonized with the surroundings and the most interesting landscape vistas are not altered. | | | | | A spatial design is developed that allows a link between people and the environment. | | | | | | | Priority is given to ramps and stairs over mechanized transport equipment. | | | | | | | The design allows for visually connecting users with the external environment through openings, windows, and apertures. | | | | | | | A design is developed that incorporates spaces that promote integrated waste management. | | | | | | | Design elements are incorporated that explicitly educate the users of the building on the subject of sustainability. | | | | | | | Occupants are provided with a high degree of control over the temperature and ventilation of spaces (control of vents, openings, shading). | | | | | | | Strategies are incorporated to protect | | | | | | | CRITERION | STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE IT | APPLICATION | OBSERVATIONS | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | YES | NO | | | | | | | | exposed parts of the building properly. | | | | | The concept of thermal mass should be used in the design for cases where the daily temperature differential favors it. | | | | | | | Materials and components from an existing building on the project site are utilized, if applicable. | | | | | | | Design is made for security and crime deterrence, allowing visibility and control between street and building. | | | | | | | | 2 | Design is made from the conceptualization stage with passive strategies. | A design is developed that uses passive strategies. | | | | | The building is sited in such a way that the existing resources of sunlight and prevailing winds are optimized for its passive climate control. | | | | | | | Shade is used as a climate conditioner to achieve comfortable interior shading. | | | | | | | Facade elements, roof coverings, and eaves are used that mitigate the effect of sun, heat, wind, noise, and environmental humidity. | | | | | | | | The design considers the entry of natural light, excluding the direct penetration of sunlight. | | | | | | | A design is developed that generates intermediate spaces between the interior and exterior that buffer inclement weather. | | | | | | | Comfort is promoted through natural ventilation. | | | | | | | Water is used (fountains, reflecting pools) as a temperature and comfort regulating element, avoiding the generation of humidity | | | | | | | CRITERION | STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE IT | APPLICATION | OBSERVATIONS | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | YES | NO | | | | | | | | for highly humid climates. | | | | | In cases where the climate does not allow for comfort passively, the use of fans is preferred as an aid to generate ventilation in spaces. | | | | | | | 3 | Materials to be used are specified from the design phase. | A percentage of rubble, remains of construction and demolition materials are separated for recycling or reuse. | | | | | Coordination is made with local recycling programs, recyclable waste is taken to collection centers or indicated locations that recover them, thus extending the life cycle of materials. | | | | | | | Design is made in a modular and industrialized manner, reducing waste (Note: According to national regulations on modular coordination). | | | | | | | Lightweight construction materials are used that represent a reduction in the building's weight. | | | | | | | The use of materials with recycled and/or recyclable content is encouraged, reducing the demand for virgin materials. | | | | | | | Low-maintenance and easy-to-clean finishes are chosen, which reduce the frequency of replacement. | | | | | | | In case of glass exposed to solar radiation, window systems with protection that minimizes its impact are used. | | | | | | | Priority must be given to construction materials and products extracted, harvested, and/or manufactured in localities near the construction site or with a low carbon footprint. | | | | | | | CRITERION | STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE IT | APPLICATION | OBSERVATIONS | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | YES | NO | | | | | | | | Priority must be given to materials with third-party sustainability certification. | | | | | The wood used has a sustainability certification recognized by the competent entity (MINAE). | | | | | | | The wood used has a certification that it received an adequate preservation treatment. | | | | | | | Reflectivity and excessive artificial light emissions are controlled with materials and solutions that do not disturb existing habitats and life in urban environments. | | | | | | | The heat island effect must be reduced on horizontal surfaces (roofs, floors, slabs). | | | | | | | The building incorporates elements that isolate sound in walls, ceilings, and window systems. | | | | | | | Paints, coatings, carpets, adhesives, sealants, and agglomerates low in Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and that do not emit harmful chemicals to the health of occupants are used. | | | | | | | There are construction procedures that ensure the mitigation, control, and elimination of material emissions. | | | | | | | 4 | All water is utilized to avoid water waste. | Efficient sanitary fixtures, taps, and accessories in terms of water consumption are used (current national regulations). | | | | | There is equipment for monitoring and/or controlling consumption by sectors. | | | | | | | The supply of potable water is reduced by recycling gray water or utilizing | | | | | | | CRITERION | STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE IT | APPLICATION | OBSERVATIONS | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | YES | NO | | | | | | | potable. | treated water for irrigation. | | | | | The supply of potable water is reduced by capturing rainwater. | | | | | | | The contamination of potable water sources is avoided. | | | | | | | Infiltration of rainwater into the subsoil is allowed (pavements, roadways, free area). | | | | | | | Rainwater drainage is dimensioned considering the rainfall variation of extraordinary events. | | | | | | | Efficient irrigation techniques or treated water are used. | | | | | | | 5 | Electrical energy consumption is optimized. | Energetically efficient equipment is used that minimizes the emission of polluting agents into the atmosphere. | | | | | Artificial lighting circuits are designed according to the contribution of natural lighting. | | | | | | | Exterior lighting is installed that minimizes disturbance of the nocturnal ecosystem. | | | | | | | When artificial lighting is required, it is designed so that the activity can be adequately performed. | | | | | | | Water is heated with renewable energy sources. | | | | | | | Accessories, devices, and controls are available that allow the building administration to control and visualize its energy consumption, and the excess of centralized technologies is avoided. | | | | | | | 6 | The substitution of soils containing | The design proposes a foundation system that minimizes the need to substitute soil. | | | | | Earthworks (movimientos de tierra) are reduced or avoided, and the leveling and intervention of natural terrain is minimized. | | | | | | | CRITERION | STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE IT | APPLICATION | OBSERVATIONS | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | YES | NO | | | | | | | all the genetic information of the area is avoided. | leveling and intervention of natural terrain. | | | | | Existing organic soil is conserved, establishing its management during the construction process through recovery, storage, and reuse. | | | | | | | Soil erosion and sedimentation are controlled. | | | | | | | Contaminated soils are recovered and/or given final disposal. | | | | | | | There are construction procedures that ensure the mitigation, control, and elimination of pollutants toward the soil. | | | | | | | Precautions are taken when building in areas near geological or volcanic faults, landslide areas, and on the margins of water bodies, in areas with flood risk.
Building on unstable soils and fill is avoided. Applicable current legislation is taken into account. | | | | | | | 7 | Landscaping conceived for the specific area of the building is incorporated. | The building is adapted respecting pre-existing tree vegetation. | | | | | An area is designated for reforestation and recovery in case of intervened and deforested habitats (even if off-site). | | | | | | | Concepts are applied in landscape design that promote ecosystems allowing biodiversity, considering local life zones. | | | | | | | The vegetative continuity of existing species is considered (excepting species harmful to the local ecosystem) and considering the shape, texture, color, | | | | | | | CRITERION | STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE IT | APPLICATION | OBSERVATIONS | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | YES | NO | | | | | | | | variants of height and thickness of endemic species | | | | | Vegetation cover is densified as much as possible, avoiding monocultures | | | | | | Biological corridors are generated where the project allows it | | | | | | | The incorporation of invasive species is limited and controlled | | | | | | | Perimeter and intermediate enclosures that incorporate vegetation cover are designed | | | | | | | Vegetation is used to mitigate the effects of temperature, humidity, and pollution. | | | | | | | Species adapted to the local rainfall regime are established and used | | | | | | | 8 | The use of alternative sustainable means of transport is prioritized. | Priority is given and parking facilities are provided for alternative means of transport (bicycles, scooters, etc.) | | | | | Hygiene facilities are available for users of alternative transport who require them. | | | | | | | Priority is given and parking facilities are provided for users of collective transport (car pooling, shared transport) | | | | | | | The use of automobiles with low emission and energy efficiency technologies is favored (preferential parking zones, parking areas with provisions for charging electric vehicles, etc.). | | | | | | | 9 | The environment and society are an essential part | Construction must be in previously urbanized areas. | | | | | There must be access to means of | | | | | | | | | APPLICATION | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | | | YES NO | | | of the project. collective transport (or failing that, request one) for users no more than 500 meters away from the project | | | | Buildings and structures of heritage interest must be respected. | | | | | The project must prioritize high-rise construction, leaving the maximum amount of usable green areas according to each project and in accordance with applicable urban planning regulations. | | | | | Fair treatment guidelines must be followed, respecting labor laws and social guarantees of the locality.
Applicable current legislation is considered. | | | | | The building must respond to universal design criteria. Applicable current legislation must be considered. | | | | | Sidewalks in the surroundings of the project are in good condition and meet the minimum accessibility and dimensioning criteria according to current regulations. | | | | | It must be ensured that the infrastructure of nearby bus or train stops is in good condition (they are covered, have resting areas). | | | | | Policies and programs for smoke-free environments are in place. Applicable current legislation is considered. | | | | | It must incorporate safety measures for emergencies, such as fires, earthquakes, hurricanes, or any other natural event that endangers the building's users. Applicable current legislation is considered. | | | |
REHABILITATIONS, REMODELINGS, RENOVATIONS, IMPROVEMENTS, ADAPTATIONS, Name of the institution:
Report date:
Construction project:
Evaluation responsible party:
Name:
| CRITERION | STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE IT | APPLICATION | OBSERVATIONS | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | YES | NO | | | | | | 1 | Basic external concepts are incorporated into the design for its good performance. | The architecture must be harmonized with the environment and the most important scenic views must not be altered. | | | | | Priority is given to ramps and stairs over mechanized transport equipment, promoting their use through signage. | | | | | | | The design allows users to visually connect with the exterior environment through openings, windows, and apertures. | | | | | | | A design is developed that incorporates spaces promoting integrated waste management. | | | | | | | Design elements are incorporated that explicitly educate building users on the topic of sustainability. | | | | | | | Occupants are provided with a high degree of control over the temperature and ventilation of the spaces (control of vents, openings, shades). | | | | | | | Materials and components from an existing building on the site are utilized in the | | | | | | | CRITERION | STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE IT | APPLICATION | OBSERVATIONS | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | YES | NO | | | | | | | | project, if applicable. | | | | | It is designed for safety and vandalism deterrence, allowing visibility and control between the street and the building. | | | | | | | 2 | The design is conceptualized with passive strategies. | A design is developed that uses passive strategies. | | | | | Shade is used as a climate conditioner to achieve comfortable interior shading. | | | | | | | The design considers the entry of natural light while excluding the direct penetration of sunlight. | | | | | | | Comfort is promoted through natural ventilation. | | | | | | | In cases where the climate does not allow passive comfort, the use of fans is preferred as an aid to generate ventilation in the spaces. | | | | | | | 3 | The materials to be used are specified from the design of the new spaces or modifications. | A percentage of the rubble, leftover construction and demolition materials are separated for recycling or reuse. | | | | | Coordination is made with local recycling programs; recyclable waste is taken to collection centers or designated places that recover them, thus extending the lifecycle of the materials. | | | | | | | It is designed in a modular and industrialized manner, reducing waste (Note: According to national modular coordination regulations). | | | | | | | Lightweight construction materials are used, representing a reduction in the building's weight. | | | | | | | The use of materials with recycled and/or recyclable content is encouraged, reducing the demand for virgin materials. | | | | | | | CRITERION | STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE IT | APPLICATION | OBSERVATIONS | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | YES | NO | | | | | | | | Low-maintenance and easy-to-clean finishes are chosen, which decrease the frequency of replacement. | | | | | In the case of glass exposed to solar radiation, window systems with protection that minimizes its impact are used. | | | | | | | Priority must be given to construction materials and products extracted, harvested, and/or manufactured in localities near the construction site or with a low carbon footprint. | | | | | | | Priority must be given to materials with third-party sustainability certification. | | | | | | | The wood used has a sustainability certification recognized by the competent entity (MINAE). | | | | | | | The wood used has a certification that it received adequate preservation treatment. | | | | | | | Reflectivity and excessive artificial light emissions are controlled with materials and solutions that do not disrupt existing habitats and life in urban environments. | | | | | | | The heat island effect on horizontal surfaces (roofs, floors, slabs) must be reduced. | | | | | | | The building incorporates elements that isolate sound in walls, ceilings, and window systems. | | | | | | | Paints, coatings, carpets, adhesives, sealants, and composite products low in VOCs and that do not emit chemicals harmful to the occupants' health are used. | | | | | | | Construction procedures are in place to ensure the mitigation, control, and elimination of material emissions. | | | | | | | CRITERION | STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE IT | APPLICATION | OBSERVATIONS | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | YES | NO | | | | | | 4 | All waters are utilized to avoid the waste of potable (drinking) water. | Sanitary fixtures, faucets, and accessories that are efficient in water consumption are used (current national regulations). | | | | | Monitoring and/or consumption control equipment by sectors is available. | | | | | | | The supply of potable (drinking) water is reduced by recycling graywater or utilizing treated water for irrigation. | | | | | | | The supply of potable (drinking) water is reduced by capturing rainwater. | | | | | | | Contamination of potable (drinking) water sources is avoided. | | | | | | | The infiltration of rainwater into the subsoil is permitted (pavements, roadways, open areas). | | | | | | | Rainwater drainage is dimensioned considering the pluviometric variation of extraordinary events. | | | | | | | Efficient irrigation techniques or treated water are used. | | | | | | | 5 | The consumption of electrical energy is optimized. | Equipment that is energy-efficient and minimizes the emission of polluting agents into the atmosphere is used (if existing equipment must be replaced, the cost ranges from medium to high). | | | | | Artificial lighting circuits are designed according to the contribution of natural lighting. | | | | | | | Exterior lighting that minimizes the disturbance of the nocturnal ecosystem is installed. | | | | | | | When artificial lighting is required, it is designed so that the activity can be performed adequately. | | | | | | | Water is heated with renewable energy sources. | | | | | | | 6 | The replacement of | The design proposes a foundation system | | | | | CRITERION | STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE IT | APPLICATION | OBSERVATIONS | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | YES | NO | | | | | | | soils that contain all the genetic information of the zone is avoided. | that minimizes the need to replace the soil. | | | | | Earthworks (movimientos de tierra), leveling, and intervention of the natural terrain are reduced or avoided. | | | | | | | The existing organic soil is conserved, establishing management of it during the construction process through recovery, storage, and reuse.
Erosion and sedimentation of soils are controlled. | | | | | | | Contaminated soils must be recovered and/or given a final disposal. | | | | | | | Construction procedures are in place to ensure the mitigation, control, and elimination of pollutants into the soil. | | | | | | | Take precautions when building in areas near geological faults, volcanic areas, landslide areas, and margins of water bodies, in areas with flood risk. And building on unstable soils and fill is avoided. Applicable current legislation is considered. | | | | | | | 7 | Landscaping is incorporated, designed for the specific zone of the building. | The remodeling or expansion of the building is adapted, respecting the pre-existing arboreal vegetation. | | | | | An area is designated for reforestation and recovery in the case of intervened and deforested habitats (even if off-site). | | | | | | | Concepts are applied in the landscape design that promote ecosystems allowing for biodiversity, considering the local life zones. | | | | | | | CRITERION | STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE IT | APPLICATION | OBSERVATIONS | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | YES | NO | | | | | | | | The vegetative continuity of existing species is considered (except for species harmful to the local ecosystem) and considering the shape, texture, color, variants of height and thickness of endemic species. | | | | | Vegetation cover is densified as much as possible, avoiding monocultures. | | | | | | | Biological corridors are generated where the project allows it. | | | | | | | The incorporation of invasive species is limited and controlled. | | | | | | | Perimeter and intermediate enclosures that incorporate vegetation cover are designed. | | | | | | | Vegetation is used to mitigate the effects of temperature, humidity, and pollution. | | | | | | | Species adapted to the local rainfall regime are established and used. | | | | | | | 8 | The use of alternative sustainable means of transport is prioritized. | Priority is given and parking facilities are provided for alternative means of transport (bicycles, scooters, etc.). | | | | | Priority is given and parking facilities are provided for users of collective transport (car pooling, shared transport). | | | | | | | The use of automobiles with low emission and energy efficiency technologies is favored (preferential parking zones, parking areas with provisions for charging electric vehicles, etc.). | | | | | | | Construction must be in previously urbanized areas. | | | | | | | There must be access to collective transport means (or failing that, request one) for users no more than 500 meters away from the project. | | | | | | | CRITERION | STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE IT | APPLICATION | OBSERVATIONS | | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | YES | NO | | | | | | | | Buildings and structures of heritage interest must be respected. | | | | | Fair treatment guidelines must be followed, respecting labor laws and social guarantees of the locality.
Applicable current legislation is considered. | | | | | | The building must respond to universal design criteria. Applicable current legislation must be considered. | | | | | | | Policies and programs for smoke-free environments are in place. Applicable current legislation is considered. | | | | | | | It must incorporate safety measures for emergencies, such as fires, earthquakes, hurricanes, or any other natural event that endangers the building's users. Applicable current legislation is considered. | | | | | | | 9 | The environment and society are an essential part of the project. | Buildings and structures of heritage interest must be respected. | | | | | Fair treatment guidelines must be followed, respecting labor laws and social guarantees of the locality. Applicable current legislation is considered. | | | | | | | Policies and programs for smoke-free environments are in place. Applicable current legislation is considered. | | | | | | | It must incorporate safety measures for emergencies, such as fires, earthquakes, hurricanes, or any other natural event that endangers the building's users. Applicable current legislation is considered. | | | | | |