1.1 This practice offers a set of instructions for collecting data to be used in assessing the sustainability of elements or products for use in both commercial and residential buildings.

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 standard addresses sustainability issues related to building elements. This standard 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 standard provides no instruction as to interpretation of the data obtained. Interpretation of the data obtained is the responsibility of the user of this standard.

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 ASTM standard 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.

1.2 This standard is organized according to UNIFORMAT II principles in accordance with Classification E1557 to ensure consistency in the evaluation of building products.

1.3 This standard includes general, comprehensive data requirements. Depending upon the product, certain data requirements may not apply given the unique characteristics of the element and the potential environmental impacts related to the intended use of the element. Depending upon the product or element, certain data requirements may need to be added as appropriate to the unique characteristics of the product and the potential environmental impacts related to the intended use of the element.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.