Steel structure is increasingly becoming the top choice in modern construction due to its ability to optimize resources, reduce emissions, and improve economic efficiency. To ensure sustainability, steel structure projects must strictly comply with international standards and prestigious certifications.
1. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
LEED is the leading green building certification developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), providing a comprehensive assessment from design and construction to operation.
Key criteria for steel structures:
- Recycled materials: Using recycled steel (≥30%) helps reduce CO₂ emissions by 40% compared to virgin steel.
- Energy efficiency: Lightweight steel frame design, combined with insulation systems and the use of natural light.
- Waste management: Recycling 90% of steel scrap during the fabrication process.
2. BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method)
BREEAM is the oldest green building assessment standard from the UK, focusing on resource management and ecosystem protection.
Requirements for steel structures:
- Local materials: Using steel produced within a 160km radius to reduce transportation emissions
- Flexible design: Steel frames that are easy to disassemble and reuse for new projects.
- Pollution control: Applying VOC-free paint spraying technology to limit toxic emissions
3. Green Star (Australia)
Green Star focuses on minimizing environmental impact through advanced materials and technology.
Highlights:
- Responsible steel: 95% of steel used must come from manufacturers compliant with ISO 14001 and carbon reduction programs
- ESC Certification: Hai Long is the first entity in Vietnam to achieve ESC Level 4 thanks to its closed-loop supply chain and 98% scrap recycling rate
4. Living Building Challenge (LBC)
LBC is the most rigorous standard, aiming for self-sufficient and zero-emission buildings.
Challenges for steel structures:
- Eliminating toxic chemicals: Using steel without Chromium VI treatment, replacing it with eco-friendly organic coatings.
- Renewable materials: 100% recycled steel combined with FSC industrial wood
5. ISO 14001 & ISO 3834 – Foundations for Sustainable Management
ISO 14001 and ISO 3834 are two essential international certifications to ensure environmentally friendly steel production processes and high quality.
- ISO 14001: Reduces energy consumption by 30% and industrial wastewater by 50% through a closed-loop recycling system.
- ISO 3834-2: 100% weld inspection using ultrasonic and magnetic particle testing, ensuring durability exceeding AWS D1.1 standards
6. ResponsibleSteel – Global Standard for Green Steel
ResponsibleSteel is the most comprehensive certification, evaluating everything from ore extraction to steel structure fabrication.
Core criteria:
- Emission reduction: Using electric arc furnaces (EAF) instead of blast furnaces, reducing CO₂ by 75%.
- Community protection: Supporting healthcare and education for areas surrounding the factory.
Pursuing steel structure sustainability certifications not only enhances credibility but also opens up international cooperation opportunities for the enterprise. With a modern factory system, advanced technology, and an experienced team of experts, Hai Long Construction JSC is proud to accompany customers in creating “green – sustainable – beautiful” projects that meet the most rigorous standards.
