Key Principles for Real Progress

At the International Living Future Institute (ILFI), our mission is to advance the creation of a truly regenerative built environment. In this pursuit, organizations must operate with the same clarity and integrity as individuals—setting clear goals, seeking consistent encouragement, and measuring tangible progress. However, misplaced credit can undermine these collective efforts. Whether building from scratch or renovating existing structures, every action creates impacts on people, communities, resources, and the environment. To ensure genuine progress, it’s essential to claim both positive and negative impacts with integrity.

Identifiable Impacts: Real

To maintain the credibility of Living Future projects, it’s crucial that claimed impacts are tangible and identifiable. Unfortunately, some entities take credit for actions they haven’t actually undertaken. For instance, certain carbon offset programs may claim reductions in emissions simply by preserving undeveloped lands, which can detract from genuine sustainability efforts.

Measured Impacts: Metered

Quantifiable impacts are a cornerstone of ILFI’s programs. We require a 12-month performance period backed by verifiable data to support the benefits claimed. Accurate measurement ensures that the progress reflected in Living Building Challenge, Zero Carbon, and Zero Energy projects is real and impactful.

New Impacts: Additionality

Recognizing only new impacts is essential for continuous progress. Awarding credits for pre-existing achievements can stagnate advancement. Zero Carbon and other ILFI-certified projects must demonstrate that their positive impacts extend beyond what has already been achieved, ensuring that every project pushes the boundaries of what’s possible.

Attributed Impacts: Earned

Proper attribution is vital to prevent double-counting benefits. Credit should only be given where it is due. For example, a project cannot claim benefits that rightly belong to another entity. By adhering to this principle, Living Future projects maintain the integrity and transparency that drive real progress.

In conclusion, ensuring that impacts in regenerative design are identifiable, measured, additional, and correctly attributed is fundamental to sustaining the integrity of sustainability efforts. By embracing these principles, we can collectively advance toward a regenerative future.

.Join us in this commitment to real impact. Explore how you can contribute to a Living Future by certifying your next project with ILFI. Contact us at sales@living-future.org or click here to get started.