TOTEM enquiry into exemplary role of Flemish government

On behalf of OVAM, we investigated with Buildwise how Flemish authorities (and by extension all clients) could play an exemplary role as prescribers of TOTEM in construction projects.
  • Client: OVAM

  • Timing: 2019 - 2021

  • Status: Executed

TOTEM [Tool to Optimise the Total Environmental impact of Materials] is a transparent, simple, digital interface that allows the Belgian construction sector to get to work on objectifying and reducing the environmental impact of buildings.

TOTEM is the result of an intensive collaboration project between the three regions (OVAM, Leefmilieu Brussel and the Service Public de Wallonie), in collaboration with universities and research institutes.

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Purpose of the assignment:

  • guiding contracting authorities in integrating, applying and evaluating TOTEM in the context of public procurement;
  • the preparation and implementation of a general communication event where public authorities are informed and trained on the opportunities, procedures, concerns and added value in integrating TOTEM in public procurement;
  • the drafting of a guide useful for the broad group of public authorities considering TOTEM integration in projects.

Assignment output:

  • A practical guide with guidelines, strategies and steps to qualitatively integrate the use of TOTEM into an assignment.
Download the guide

Meet our TOTEM expert

From Team Sustainability, Energy & Comfort (1)

Jona 569 A6702 Large

ir. arch. Jona Van Steenkiste

Energy and sustainability advisor
EPB reporter
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What impact do building materials have on our environment?

TAGS: TOTEM| Environmental impact