Unique School Building in Götafors, Sweden Sets a New Standard for Sustainable Construction Globally
Press release
STOCKHOLM, May 27, 2024 – A new and unique school building in Götafors, constructed with innovative modular systems, has become the first school in the world to achieve the highest level of Outstanding in the BREEAM In-Use V.6 environmental certification. This accomplishment not only highlights the potential of modern modular construction but also sets a new standard for sustainable schools and public buildings in Sweden.
By achieving the BREEAM In-Use Outstanding certification, Götafors School demonstrates that circular modular constructions can be transformed into modern, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly schools. This project inspires a more sustainable future for upcoming generations and sets a new benchmark for sustainable construction of public environments in Sweden.
Parmaco, responsible for the construction, has leveraged its expertise to optimize the resources of Götafors School and minimize its environmental impact. With innovative solutions and technologies, the result is a school that is not only functional and beautiful but also provides a healthier and more eco-friendly environment for both students and educators.
“This is an incredible achievement for everyone involved. By focusing on the right things and collaborating effectively, we have shown that it is possible to achieve exceptional results in sustainable development. Götafors School stands as a clear example of how innovative thinking and modern construction techniques with a focus on circularity can pave the way for a more sustainable future,” says Rikard Nyhrén, CEO of Parmaco Sweden.
That a modular-built school achieves top scores in areas such as daylight optimization, energy efficiency, water management, and pollution control demonstrate not only a commitment to environmental sustainability but also directly contributes to a better indoor environment. These measures ensure a healthy and stimulating atmosphere that benefits both students and educators. Effective lighting and climate control, open spaces, and safety enhancements create an inviting and productive environment.
“We are extremely proud of our new school, which has everything we wished for in an optimal work and learning environment for both students and teachers. The facilities are flexible, have good flow, and optimal sound and light levels, making it a dream to work and study in. We are already experiencing higher satisfaction, increased opportunities for quality teaching and learning, and better results,” says Maria Ekenskytt, Principal of Götafors School.
A Leader in Sustainable Construction
Götafors School has achieved exceptional results in all categories of the BREEAM In-Use certification, reflecting a commitment to high environmental standards. This award is not only a success for Parmaco and Hedström & Taube, who managed the certification, but also for the entire Swedish construction industry. It shows that Sweden is a leader in sustainable construction and that it is possible to create buildings that are both environmentally friendly and functional in both public and private sectors.
For more information:
- Rikard Nyhrén, CEO Parmaco Sweden, mobile: +46 70-207 46 76,
email; nyhren@parmaco.se - Ylva Ridderheim, Head of Marketing and Communication Parmaco,
mobile: +46 70 535 75 24, email: ridderheim@parmaco.se - Maria Ekenskytt, Principal Götafors School, mobile: 0370-67 84 14,
email: ekenskytt@vaggeryd.se - Linda Kirsebom, Press Contact @ Prat PR, mobile +46 708 28 25 22, email: linda.kirsebom@prat.se
Facts about BREEAM In-Use Certification
BREEAM In-Use is a global system for the environmental certification of existing buildings, administered by the Building Research Establishment (BRE). It is a robust and independent assessment of a building’s environmental performance, based on nine different categories:
1. Health and Wellbeing: Indoor environment, noise, visual comfort, air quality.
2. Energy: Energy consumption and carbon emissions, energy-related features.
3. Water: Water consumption and wastewater management.
4. Waste: Waste management and recycling.
5. Transport: Transport infrastructure and accessibility.
6. Materials: Material selection, procurement, and waste management.
7. Land Use and Ecology: Biodiversity, green spaces, pollution.
8. Management: Environmental management, maintenance, and monitoring.
9. Community Impact: Health and safety, security, local community engagement.
For each category, the building is awarded points based on how well it meets BREEAM’s requirements. The total score determines the certification level, ranging from Pass to Outstanding.