SDU builds sustainably
SDU’s building stock consists of structures of varying age, quality, and usability, which impose different requirements for future use.
The university’s approach to construction is rooted in sustainability, with a strong emphasis on reusing existing buildings and materials.
For construction projects, it is always assessed whether the need can be met through conversion or renovation before opting for new construction, as these have a significantly smaller environmental footprint. SDU uses the environmental impact pyramid as a decision-making tool to minimize material consumption and environmental impact.
The choice between conversion, renovation, and new construction is based on evaluations of the buildings’ reusability, energy efficiency, lifespan, operation, and maintenance. Economy, functionality, as well as academic and social synergies, are also part of the decision-making foundation.
Overall, construction projects must support SDU’s core tasks and align with the university’s Climate Plan 2023 and 2030.
Definition of renovation, remodeling, and new construction
A sustainable approach to a construction project begins with an assessment of the project's scope based on the categories of remodeling, renovation, or new construction.
Below, you can read how SDU defines the three solutions.
Renovation
In buildings with high reusability, many purposes can be fulfilled with few interventions with low environmental impact.
Reconstruction
Construction project involving the replacement of building elements, technical installations and environmental remediation, as well as the creation of new functions that change the use of the building.
A well-planned renovation can revitalise existing buildings with a lower environmental footprint than new construction, but requires careful planning and often involves compromises in terms of building structure, layout and future operation.
New constructions
New construction is the construction of entirely new buildings, either independently or as part of existing buildings, typically when there is a need for special facilities or lack of space.
Although new construction has a large environmental footprint, it commits to high quality, longevity and flexible design, while temporary pavilions should only be used as a short-term emergency solution.
Selection and Use of Materials
SDU works systematically with material selection to reduce the overall environmental and climate impact of buildings throughout their lifecycle.
Materials are assessed based on resource consumption, CO₂e footprint, lifespan, quantity usage, and impact during demolition and disposal.
For new construction, life cycle analyses (LCA) are a legal requirement, but SDU emphasizes the early evaluation of the need for new construction, thereby ensuring the most appropriate material usage across conversions, renovations, and new builds.
As a screening tool, we use Materialepyramiden, which provides a simple decision-making basis for prioritizing materials with low environmental impact and minimizing the use of the most burdensome ones. SDU’s material standards establish the framework for the selection and use of materials and are designed to support the university’s climate goals.
For larger construction projects, consultants responsible for sustainable material choices, including compliance with CO₂e requirements, are involved.
For new construction and major renovations, DGNB is used as a sustainability management tool, where material selection is part of a holistic assessment of environmental, economic, social, technical, and area-specific quality.
Questions about Campus Development?
Contact Technical Services if you have questions about a specific project or construction at SDU in general.