Between 1965 and 1974, Sweden undertook an ambitious housing initiative known as the Million Program, during which one million homes were constructed. Today, after around 50 years in operation, many of these buildings face serious challenges due to aging infrastructure. These challenges include outdated plumbing, high energy consumption caused by poor thermal insulation, and deterioration of internal and external systems such as ventilation, structural components, and elevators. Addressing these issues requires extensive renovations, and financing these measures presents a significant challenge for both property owners and municipalities.The purpose of this study is to explore how environmental certification—specifically through Miljöbyggnad iDrift—can help make Million Program buildings more attractive on the housing market. The certification process aims to enhance technical aspects of the buildings, such as energy efficiency, thermal comfort, ventilation, accessibility, and usability. Additionally, it seeks to promote environmentally conscious behavior among tenants.

The study is guided by two main research questions:

How can Miljöbyggnad iDrift be used as a strategy or guide for renovating buildings from the Million Program?

What specific renovation measures are needed for the building Vinddraget 10 A to achieve a “Silver” rating according to selected indicators in Miljöbyggnad iDrift?

The methodology was shaped by the verification process required by Miljöbyggnad iDrift. Data collection involved collaboration with the property owner AB Gavlegårdarna, review of architectural and construction drawings (A- and K-drawings), and a detailed case study of Vinddraget 10 A, including a blower door test and use of infrared (IR) cameras to assess building airtightness.

The results indicate that Miljöbyggnad iDrift is a practical and effective strategy for guiding renovations of Million Program buildings. It offers a framework for achieving realistic improvements that align older buildings with current technical standards. The success and cost-effectiveness of these measures, however, depend largely on the building’s existing condition and the property owner’s commitment to quality and maintenance.

For the specific case of Vinddraget 10 A, several key actions are necessary to meet Miljöbyggnad iDrift criteria under the categories of energy, ventilation, indoor climate, and installation:

Ensuring airtightness of all apartments to passive house standards.Replacing the AC motor in the exhaust fan with a more energy-efficient EC motor.Implementing a scheduled maintenance plan for ventilation filter replacements.Improving technical documentation, particularly for systems like circulation pumps with pressure regulation.

By implementing these measures, Vinddraget 10 A can significantly enhance its sustainability, tenant comfort, and compliance with modern building regulations. The case study supports the conclusion that Miljöbyggnad iDrift not only guides quality renovations but also contributes to better marketability and long-term value of Million Program buildings.