As the world increasingly embraces sustainability, the building and construction industry is at the forefront of this transformative movement. At Decor Systems, we are committed to fostering a deeper understanding of green practices and promoting eco-friendly solutions in architectural acoustics. This glossary is designed to serve as a comprehensive resource for architects, designers, builders, and anyone interested in sustainable building practices.

Within this glossary, you will find definitions and explanations of key terms related to environmental sustainability, green building certifications, eco-design principles, and much more. Our aim is to demystify the language of sustainability and provide clear, concise information that can help guide your decisions and practices toward a greener future.

Whether you are a seasoned professional or new to the concept of sustainable building, this glossary will equip you with the knowledge to make informed choices that benefit both the environment and the communities we serve. Together, we can create spaces that are aesthetically pleasing, acoustically sound, and environmentally responsible.

Explore the terms, embrace the concepts, and join us on the journey towards a more sustainable built environment.

AFS – Australian Forestry Standard

A not-for-profit, membership-based organisation that promotes sustainable forest management in Australia. It is a nationally accredited programme for the endorsement of forest certification schemes (PEFC) in Australia.

Carbon

A chemical element with the symbol C and atomic number 6. Carbon emissions are a major contributor to climate change, and efforts are being made to reduce carbon footprints to combat this.

Carbon Footprint

The total amount of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide and methane that is generated by human activities. It is typically measured in equivalent tons of CO₂.

Chain of Custody

A verified mechanism for tracking certified materials from the sustainably managed forest to the final product. It is an important aspect of ensuring sustainability and responsible consumption of forest products.

Daylighting

The practice of placing windows, skylights, and reflective surfaces to maximise natural light within a building. It reduces the need for artificial lighting and can improve energy efficiency.

Eco-Design

A design approach that considers the environmental impacts of products throughout their entire lifecycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal.

Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)

A standardised way of quantifying the environmental impact of a product, service or system. It includes information about a product's lifecycle, from raw material extraction to disposal.

Embodied Carbon

The amount of carbon emissions produced during the production of a building material or product, including the extraction of raw materials, transportation, and manufacturing.

Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®)

An independent, non-governmental, not-for-profit organisation that accredits forest managers, manufacturing companies, and controlled wood products that exhibit responsible consumption of forest products.

Global GreenTag

One of the world’s most robust, trusted and widely recognised eco-labels. They independently assure that every product is fitness tested and certified under one of their two leading certification programs.

Green Acoustics

The practice of designing and managing acoustic environments in a way that minimises negative impacts on the environment while promoting human wellbeing.

Green Roof

A roof partially or completely covered with vegetation helps reduce heat absorption, improve insulation, and manage stormwater.

Green Star

The Green Building Council of Australia developed a certification program that rates the sustainability of buildings, fitouts, and communities. It is a robust, transparent and independent assessment process that certifies projects so that they can display the Green Star Certification Trademark.

Green Building Council Australia (GBCA)

The body rates the sustainability of buildings, fitouts, and communities through Australia’s largest national, voluntary, holistic rating system – Green Star. It also provides training and advocacy around sustainable building methods and materials.

Health Product Declaration (HPD)

A standard format for reporting product content and associated health information for building products and materials. It allows manufacturers to be transparent about the ingredients used in their products and their potential health impacts.

ISO 14001

An international standard for environmental management systems (EMS), it provides a framework for organisations to systematically manage their environmental responsibilities.

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)

A methodology for assessing the environmental impacts of a product or process throughout its entire lifecycle, from raw material extraction to disposal.

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)

One of the most widely used third-party verification systems for green buildings. LEED-certified buildings are resource-efficient, eco-friendly, and cost less money to run than non-LEED buildings. Plus, they incorporate tactics and technologies that make the building healthier for its inhabitants.

Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds)

Low VOC products refer to products that emit low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) – harmful chemicals that can affect indoor air quality. Low VOC products contribute to healthier indoor environments.

Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB)

A building that produces as much energy as it consumes over a year, typically through a combination of energy efficiency measures and on-site renewable energy generation.

Passive Design

Design strategies that leverage natural climate conditions to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, reducing the need for mechanical heating and cooling systems.

Redlist

A list of hazardous chemicals and materials that are harmful to human health and the environment. The Living Future Institute created the Redlist as part of its mission to promote healthy and sustainable building practices.

Renewable Energy

Energy derived from natural sources, such as solar, wind, and geothermal energy, is replenished faster than consumed.

Sustainable Sourcing

The practice of procuring materials and products in a manner that considers environmental, social, and economic impacts. It often involves choosing suppliers that adhere to sustainable practices.

Thermal Mass

The ability of a material to absorb, store, and release heat. Materials with high thermal mass can help regulate indoor temperatures and improve energy efficiency.

Triple Bottom Line (TBL)

A sustainability framework that considers three performance dimensions: social, environmental, and economic. It encourages organisations to focus on profit, people, and the planet.

Upcycling

The process of transforming waste materials or unwanted products into new materials or products of higher quality or value. It helps reduce waste and promote resource efficiency.

Water Efficiency

Water conservation is the practice of using water resources more efficiently to reduce waste, conserve water supplies and lower water bills. It can include measures such as low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting, and xeriscaping.

WELL Building Standard

A certification program developed by the International WELL Building Institute focused on building occupants' health and wellbeing. It covers seven categories of building performance: air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind.

Zero Waste

A philosophy and strategy that aims to eliminate waste by redesigning resource lifecycles so that all products are reused, repaired, or recycled. The goal is to prevent waste from being sent to landfills or incinerators.

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