EVO 25.05
Evolution — Renovation
The EVO (Evolution) standard certifies the consideration of biodiversity in residential renovations. It promotes projects that transform existing buildings by integrating nature as a structuring component.
Scope of application of EVO 25.05
The EVO 25.05 standard is aimed at residential renovation projects —major rehabilitations, site redevelopment, restructuring—that incorporate a biodiversity approach. It replaces the REN20-001 (Renovation) standard from the 2020 version, which became obsolete on January 1, 2026.
Renovating an existing building imposes constraints not found in new construction: fixed footprint, underground utilities, existing trees to be preserved or compensated for. The EVO (Environmental Value Optimization) program adapts Effinature's requirements to this context by highlighting the biodiversity gains achieved compared to the site's initial state.
EVO 25.05 in brief
- Target Residential renovations: rehabilitation, redevelopment, restructuring
- Evaluation of the design phase (final tender documents) + on-site inspection upon delivery
- Approach: Biodiversity gain measured compared to the initial state of the site
- Price: Starting from €7,500 excluding VAT (≤ 2,500 m²) + €0.76/m² thereafter
- Extension compatible with HVE (High Ecological Value) additive
The biodiversity challenges specific to renovation
Renovation presents specific biodiversity challenges that the EVO framework addresses differently from NCO ( new construction ).
Assessment of the existing situation: before any intervention, the EVO requires an ecological assessment of the site. Notable trees, existing nesting sites, protected species — these elements must be identified and taken into account in the renovation project.
Preservation and compensation: unlike new construction, which often starts from a bare plot, renovation must balance the preservation of existing vegetation with the technical constraints of the construction site. The EVO (Environmental and Vocational Assessment) evaluates the quality of this balance and promotes compensatory solutions when removals are unavoidable.
De-sealing: Renovation offers opportunities to de-seale soils—removal of asphalt, creation of swales, restoration of open ground. The EVO (Environmental and Vocational Education) program promotes these actions, which contribute directly to the ZAN (Zero Net Artificialization) objectives.
Built heritage and wildlife: old buildings often shelter species (bats, nocturnal birds of prey, swifts) whose habitats are protected. The EVO verifies that the renovation project incorporates preservation or relocation measures that comply with regulations.
EVO and social landlords
Social housing providers manage an aging housing stock, the renovation of which is a major challenge – both in terms of energy efficiency (Climate and Resilience Law) and environmental impact. The EVO framework helps to structure and promote the integration of biodiversity into rehabilitation programs.
For landlords subject to the CSRD (Consumer Responsibility and Sustainable Development Directive), Effinature EVO certification provides audited and traceable data on the biodiversity component of their portfolio. This data directly feeds into the ESRS E4 data points required by the directive.
Your profession: discover how IRICE certifications adapt to the specific constraints of social housing providers. Dedicated page for social housing providers →
EVO Certification Process
1. Initial Audit (DCE)
Analysis of the consultation file. Verification that the biodiversity commitments take into account the initial state of the site and the constraints of the existing building.
2. Final evaluation (design)
A comprehensive assessment across six categories of actions, tailored to the renovation context. The report measures the biodiversity gain between the initial state and the project.
3. On-site inspection (delivery)
Site visit upon delivery. Verification of effective implementation: preservation of trees, de-sealing, wildlife features, planting.
4. Certification Review and Decision
The complete application is subject to an independent review. The certification decision is made by the President of IRICE in accordance with procedure 02. Issuance of the certificate is not automatic: it is conditional upon compliance with the requirements of the standard.
Frequently Asked Questions — EVO
EVO 25.05 replaces REN20-001 (Renovation) as of January 1, 2026. The 2025 version incorporates stricter criteria regarding soil de-sealing and the preservation of wildlife in existing buildings. Projects registered before January 1, 2026, under REN20-001 retain their original standards.
Yes. The EVO standard is compatible with all levels of energy renovation. It is particularly relevant for low-energy building renovations that modify the building envelope and exterior spaces, as these works directly impact the site's biodiversity.
The EVO assesses the strategy for preserving tree heritage. If trees must be felled for technical reasons, the framework verifies that compensation measures are planned: replanting of local species, creation of new habitats, and reuse of dead wood.
Yes. HVE (High Environmental Value) is an addendum applicable to all Effinature standards, including EVO. Learn more about HVE →
Certify your renovation
Submit your EVO application online. Initial contact without obligation, response within 48 hours.
Complete your approach
NCO — New Construction
Biodiversity certification for new residential projects.
Learn more →HOR — Layout
Biodiversity certification for developments and ZACs.
Learn more →HVE — High Ecological Value
Addendum for projects reaching higher ecological thresholds.
Learn more →social landlord
Consolidated IRICE offer for social housing providers.
Learn more →Initial exchange without obligation