BREEAM is an environmental certification system from the UK that has existed since 1990. It is the most widespread system for environmental certification in Europe, having been used in over 500,000 buildings all over the world. The system encompasses project management, the building’s energy use, indoor climate conditions, water consumption and waste management, as well as land use and the building’s impact on the surrounding area. BREEAM-SE has been developed to allow new-builds to be certified according to Swedish regulations, while BREEAM In-Use is used for existing buildings. Since 2013 Sweden Green Building Council (SGBC) has managed the Swedish version, BREEAM-SE.

Citylab is an advisory forum for sharing knowledge of sustainable urban development, organised by Sweden Green Building Council (SGBC). Commitments and effect targets are established by SGBC, while project goals and measures are specific to each individual project. Those who want to certify their sustainability work must also satisfy a set of certification requirements.

The Fitwel international certification scheme differs from other certification schemes by focusing on human wellbeing in the building. The certification aims to increase social sustainability and gender equality, wellbeing, physical activity and safety, and reduce sickness and absenteeism. The system is designed to be applied to all buildings regardless of budget, building size or age.

The Nordic Swan Ecolabel is an environmental certification scheme for new construction of apartment buildings, single family homes, preschools and retirement homes. A Swan-certified building means that it has low energy consumption, a good indoor environment, sustainable material choices, no hazardous chemicals and that the construction process has the minimal environmental impact. Compared with other certification schemes currently on the market, the Nordic Swan Ecolabel stands out in terms of content and material requirements.