Sustainable Development Policies

11.4.8

Planning and Development — New Build Standards

1. Purpose

The purpose of this Policy is to establish design, construction, and operational standards for all new buildings, renovations, and infrastructure developments within the University of Thessaly. The Policy ensures that all developments meet the highest standards of sustainability, accessibility, and energy efficiency, in compliance with national and European frameworks.

2. Scope

This Policy applies to all new construction, renovation, and expansion projects undertaken by the University of Thessaly, including academic, research, administrative, and residential buildings across all campuses. It also applies to projects implemented in collaboration with public authorities, private contractors, or external funding programs (e.g., NSRF, Horizon Europe).

3. Legal and Institutional Context

This Policy is aligned with: Law 4957/2022 (Higher Education Reform and Governance); Law 4067/2012 (New Building Code); Law 4122/2013 (Energy Performance of Buildings); Law 4412/2016 (Public Procurement); Law 4936/2022 (National Climate Law); EU Directives 2010/31/EU and 2018/844/EU on energy performance of buildings; EU Green Deal and Circular Economy Strategy; and UN SDGs 9, 11, and 13.

4. Policy Statement

1. All new University of Thessaly buildings shall meet or exceed the national standards of energy efficiency, environmental protection, and accessibility.
   2. New constructions shall adopt ‘green building’ principles and, where feasible, aim for certification under recognized schemes (e.g., LEED, BREEAM, or equivalent Greek standards).
   3. Building design shall incorporate: passive energy-saving systems and renewable energy integration, water conservation and recycling systems, low-impact materials and waste reduction practices, and universal design principles ensuring full accessibility.
   4. Construction and renovation shall comply with Law 4067/2012, particularly Article 26 on accessibility and sustainability.
   5. All projects shall include an environmental impact assessment in accordance with national and EU law.
   6. Priority shall be given to reusing and upgrading existing buildings before new construction.
   7. Campus development plans shall ensure green open spaces, pedestrian networks, and integration with local urban plans.
   8. Construction contracts shall include sustainability and safety clauses in accordance with Law 4412/2016.
   9. The University shall maintain a Building Standards Manual defining design criteria, materials, and sustainability targets.
   10. Regular training shall be provided for architects, engineers, and contractors on sustainable and accessible building practices.

5. Implementation and Responsibilities

– The Rector oversees the implementation of this Policy.
– The Technical Services Directorate manages construction planning, procurement, and supervision.
– The Governing Council approves all major development projects and verifies compliance before implementation.

6. Monitoring and Review

The Technical Services Directorate shall conduct annual audits on compliance with building and sustainability standards. A summary of findings shall be included in the University’s Annual Sustainability Report. This Policy shall be reviewed every three (3) years or sooner if new legislation or EU directives require.

7. Related Documents / References

Law 4957/2022 (Higher Education Reform and Governance);
Law 4067/2012 (Building Code);
Law 4122/2013 (Energy Performance of Buildings);
Law 4412/2016 (Public Procurement);
Law 4936/2022 (National Climate Law);
EU Directives 2010/31/EU & 2018/844/EU;
UN SDGs 9, 11, 13.