ISO 15392:2008 identifies and establishes general principles for sustainability in building construction. It is based on the concept of sustainable development as it applies to the life cycle of buildings and other construction works, from their inception to the end of life.

ISO 15392:2008 is applicable to buildings and other construction works individually and collectively, as well as to the materials, products, services and processes related to the life cycle of buildings and other construction works.

ISO 15392:2008 does not provide levels (benchmarks) that can serve as the basis for sustainability claims. It is not intended to provide the basis for assessment of organizations or other stakeholders.