ASTM E2129-18

5.1.1 The users of this practice include building industry professionals who possess a broad, general understanding of sustainability issues relative to the performance of buildings. Such users may include planners, developers, architects, engineers, interior designers, contractors, owners, financial organizations related to the buildings industry, building materials and product manufacturers, government agencies including building officials, and other building professionals.

5.1.2 Users should note that, subsequent to the preliminary assessment facilitated by the comparative information collected in accordance with this practice, additional detailed and more technical information may be required in order to adequately assess specific needs for specific applications.

5.5.1 For questions prompting a yes-or-no response, a “yes” response is typically indicative of the more sustainable response. However, this practice provides no instruction as to the degree of impact on sustainability of a “yes” response relative to a “no” response for a particular question; and, this practice provides no instruction as to the degree of impact on sustainability of one question relative to another question.

5.5.2 The user is cautioned to review each question and the comments associated with each question. Unique characteristics of a building product and unique applications of a building product may affect interpretation of the data.

5.5.3 Comments may be provided where there is information which will elucidate the topic and improve understanding relative to the complexities of the particular question.

5.5.4 “N/A” may be indicated where questions request information that is not applicable or not available, or both.

5.5.5 “U/K” may be indicated where questions request information that is unknown or unavailable.

1.1.1 There are many features of a building that contribute to sustainability; one of them is the selection of products for use in a building. Other key features influencing sustainability include, but are not limited to: overall efficiency of the design of the building, the impact the building has on the habits of the occupants, and the impact the building has on the microclimate and macroclimate. This practice addresses sustainability issues related to building products. This practice does not address sustainability issues related to overall building design, site selection, building operations, or other features influencing sustainability.

1.1.2 While it is recommended that users rely on professional judgment informed by both environmental expertise and specific knowledge of the intended use of the product, this practice provides no instruction as to interpretation of the data obtained. Interpretation of the data obtained is the responsibility of the user of this practice.

1.1.3 This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in all circumstances. This practice is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project’s many unique aspects. The word “standard” in the title means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.