RICS has launched a new software validation programme to provide confidence for professionals who use carbon measurement software in their practice.
Validation is provided to software that allows an end user to generate a report in compliance with the WLCA standard.
Software providers can put themselves forward for validation and will be subject to checks by RICS including:
- ensuring that the software receives inputs appropriately and performs calculations according to the mandatory requirement of WLCA.
- ensuring that the software outputs are aligned with the WLCA reporting template in an acceptable digital format.
Software that meets the necessary requirements will be awarded with an RICS validation badge, confirming its suitability for those looking to meet their requirements as an RICS member, and prove their commitment to delivering low carbon projects.
Annual checks will be required to maintain validation, providing full confidence that approved software is fit for purpose.
Please note: software validated through the scheme has been assessed by RICS to ensure it generates reports that comply with the WLCA standard. Being part of the software validation programme and having a licence for the badge does not validate the general functionality of the software, the output, or its security validation. It also does not guarantee the accuracy and reliability of the software to individual end users, and should not be considered an endorsement of the tool by RICS.
If you would like your software to be assessed by RICS, please email knowledge@rics.org.
Validated Software
The following software has successfully been validated for compliance with the Whole life carbon assessment standard:
“The RICS WLCA Software Validation Programme is a critical step in bringing consistency to how carbon emissions are measured across the built environment. By validating tools against our WLCA standard (2nd edition), we are helping professionals make consistent, standard-aligned decisions that support the delivery of low-carbon, resilient assets.”
Anil Sawhney
Head of Sustainability, RICS