A major methodological evolution

The upcoming version 25.05.1 of the Effinature standards will officially integrate Integrated Stormwater Management (IGSM). This structural change anchors the certification in a logic of hydrological resilience, consistent with the priorities of the Green Climate Fund – Axis 2: adaptation to climate change and restoration of territories.

Until now, Effinature assessed water management through the “resource management plan”. The new version broadens its scope: rainwater is no longer considered as waste to be disposed of, but as an ecological resource to be restored, infiltrated and utilized on site.

What changes in version 25.05.1

1. Introduction of the GIEP criterion Each reference framework (New Constructions, Evolution, Horizon, High Ecological Value) will now include a specific criterion for integrated and ecological stormwater management, covering:

• the initial hydrological diagnosis;
• the design of vegetated infiltration structures (swales, planted pits, landscaped basins, green roofs);
• monitoring of volumes managed at the source and infiltration performance;
• the ecological maintenance of the systems in operation.

2. Verifiable indicators

The new Effinature indicators (TGS – Source Management Rate, permeabilized surfaces, rate of functional structures) will make it possible to measure and compare the hydrological performance of projects over time.

3. Full consistency with the blue network and functional biodiversity

GIEP's structures become supports for biodiversity: temporary wetlands, ecological corridors, and hygrophilous habitats. The Effinature certification thus links water, soil, and wildlife within a single ecological system.

Alignment with the Green 2025 Fund

This integration strengthens Effinature's compatibility with public funding dedicated to the rewilding of towns and villages. Certified project owners will now be able to demonstrate their project's compliance with the Green Fund 2025 doctrine and the guidelines of the National Climate Change Adaptation Program (PNACC 3).

A constantly evolving certification

The addition of the GIEP module confirms Effinature's mission: to measure, structure and certify the real contribution of real estate and development projects to the ecological resilience of territories.

Version 25.05.1 will be published in early 2026. It marks a further step towards a comprehensive approach to urban biodiversity: living soil, plant heritage, local fauna, impact reduction, skills development… and now integrated water.

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