Using shearing layer concept to evaluate green rating systems

The question guiding this study is the following: How intently and realistically do rating systems handle building and system lifetime expectancies in their current configuration? A more reliable green points credit allocation for green building standards may be achieved using six different lifetime shearing layers: Site, Structure, Skin, Services, Space, and Stuff, each reflecting distinct environmental damages. This six shearing layer concept was applied to the Israeli Sustainable Standard (SI5281), BRE Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM), Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), Green Star, and Sustainable Building Tool (SBTool) green rating systems. It was found that SI5281 focuses on the long lifetime expectancy building design, while BREEAM, LEED, and Green Star focus on the shorter lifetime expectancy system design. Moreover, SBTool gives the same importance to both the Building and Service layers.