HI-certification

Until the launch of the HI certification in the fall of 2024, the industry lacked a standardized framework to measure and report the environmental and climate impact of interiors and office spaces. To address this, a research project was initiated in 2019, gathering 30 representatives from the architecture, furniture, and facility management sectors. Together, they developed a set of criteria aligned with ISO 14024 Type 1 Environmental Labeling, which was subsequently verified by the certification body RISE.

Read the full HI Criteria Document for details (in swedish)

The HI certification is verified by an independent third party according to the official HI Criteria Document. The certification process evaluates aspects such as energy efficiency, operational emissions, and reuse initiatives in certified spaces.

The HI Certification Process, Step-by-Step

WITH HI CERTIFICATION, YOU GAIN:

• Support to achieve sustainable goals.
• Reduced environmental and climate impact.
• Credibility through third-party verification.
• Enhanced economic and social value.
• Cost savings within the organization.
• Increased property value and marketing potential.
• Support for information and reporting requirements.

FOCUS ON REUSE

The HI certification offers long-term control over asset management and increases knowledge on how to maximize resource and space utilization. The certification emphasizes reuse and the principles of a circular economy.

The HI certification is built around three main areas:

1. Scope: Describes the size, age, and energy supply of the space(s), as well as inventory in storage.
2. Premises and Organization: Verified through 18 environmental criteria that cover the organization’s planning, use of space, operations, procurement of goods and services, fixed furnishings, and finishes.
3. Inventory Evaluation: Items are assessed and classified according to four principles.

ENVIRONMENTAL CRITERIA

To earn HI certification, organizations must meet 7 out of the 18 environmental criteria for Premises and Organization. Of the remaining 11 criteria, at least 80 percent must be fulfilled.

Additionally, items within the space (measured in kilograms) are evaluated based on four principles. To be HI-certified, 80 percent of the inventory must comply with one of the four principles below, with at least 60 percent meeting the first two principles.

THE PRINCIPLES ARE:

1. Long-lasting or reused furniture from the organization’s own inventory. Tenant-owned items that are at least five years old.
2. Reused furniture from an external source. The item must have been previously used by at least one other owner.
3. New furniture that is eco-labeled. Accepted certifications include Nordic Swan, EU Ecolabel, Cradle to Cradle, Möbelfakta, Good Environmental Choice, or any other Type 1 certification (ISO 14024).
4. HI-specific requirements for non-labeled items.

Are you interested in HI labeling? Register your interest with RISE

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