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Grover, A. C. (2021). Understanding the role of Occupants in Green Building Energy. Ansal University, Gurugram, India, 10.

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Tovar, E. (2023). How to Reduce the Carbon Footprint Through Architecture? Three Approaches Across the Building Lifecycl. Retrieved from Archdaily: https://www.archdaily.com/1004300/how-to-reduce-the-carbon-footprint-through-architecture-three-approaches-across-the-building-lifecycle

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Architecture encompasses multiple processes, starting with identifying needs and transforming them into habitable structures through thoughtful design. Historically, construction-related processes like resource extraction and end-of-life disposal were often overlooked. However, it is essential to recognize that buildings have a lifecycle with significant impacts on carbon emissions. Emphasizing sustainable practices is vital to minimize our ecological footprint and positively impact the planet.

The urgency to reduce CO₂ emissions is present in various fields, including architecture. To do so, it is essential to adopt a cyclical perspective rather than a linear one when approaching construction processes. To effectively achieve the decarbonization of architecture, it is crucial to promote innovative and sustainable solutions, such as those pioneered by Holcim, that enable the reduction of carbon emissions throughout the entire life cycle of buildings. Globally scalable building solutions can be achieved by optimizing resources, using 3D printing technologies, employing recycled materials, and integrating nature into urban environments. In exploring the various possibilities for achieving CO₂-free architecture, we have selected approaches that promote energy efficiency, retrofitting, the use of new technologies, and contribute to a positive impact on nature and the surrounding environment.

According to World GBC, buildings are currently responsible for 39% of global CO₂ emissions. One-third of this footprint comes from the construction phase, while the remainder is generated in buildings in use. To enhance economic efficiency, minimize waste, and improve environmental sustainability, optimizing resources during construction is crucial. This approach leads to better-quality structures while reducing the consumption of natural resources and polluting emissions. In this way, we can build better with less environmental impact.

To reduce the carbon emissions associated with concrete, it is necessary to go back to the manufacturing processes. Some existing strategies have involved reducing specific fuel consumption during cement production -a key element in concrete manufacturing- or coming up with new proposals with the materials that make up concrete, modifying their composition to develop different ranges of lower-carbon cement and thus reducing CO₂ emissions. These low-carbon material solutions are obtained through green formulations with alternative materials, such as calcined clay, and using alternative fuels derived from materials at the end of their life cycle during the manufacturing process. These offer a CO₂ reduction of at least 30% compared to standard types of cement. They are currently used in multiple high-performance applications and projects, including stadiums, bridges, dams, high-rise buildings, and other large structures with specific technical requirements.

Similarly, low-carbon concrete solutions represent a great opportunity to decarbonize buildings. Concretes of this type are produced locally and are fully recyclable, enabling circular construction. They include recycled construction and demolition waste, combining a low carbon footprint with circular benefits. Their use can reduce CO₂ emissions by at least 30% compared to their market reference, without compromising performance across a wide range of structural components, extending beyond just homes. It can also be easily handled, pumped, and finished like conventional concrete, and is suitable for foundations, pillars, beams, walls, driveways, and sidewalks, among other applications.

In addition, today's evolving 3D concrete printing technology has become a tool that not only provides new ways to materialize building solutions but also improves their performance and enables more efficient construction, closing infrastructure gaps around the world. These advances also mean that the materials used must evolve at the pace of technology and its specific requirements. By optimizing the use of materials, 3D printing translates into more efficient buildings that make better use of resources and reduce the need for complex structures.

In the cement industry, advanced mortars have been developed for 3D printing to streamline the construction of large-scale projects and improve logistics. These highly adaptable solutions meet specific requirements and enable smarter designs, reducing material usage on a project by up to 50% without compromising performance. 3D printing uses only the materials needed for buildings, and advanced mortars optimize the amount of material used and minimize errors in construction sites, allowing large-scale projects to be built faster.

Sustainable buildings are designed and built with a focus on energy efficiency, responsible water use, thermal insulation systems, and practices that reduce their environmental impact during operation. It is estimated that up to 80% of today's buildings will still be in use by 2050, highlighting the importance of adopting practices that minimize their impact and contribute to the energy efficiency, repair, renovation, and rehabilitation of spaces.

To enhance energy efficiency, smart insulation systems are a useful strategy to improve the performance and efficiency of buildings. One such system is made up of a fully recyclable mineral foam, composed of a cement-based slurry, aqueous foam, and enclosed and distributed air bubbles. This makes them adaptable to different structures and climatic conditions and also a viable option for improving the efficiency of the building envelope. By using Airium, it is possible to limit the environmental footprint and reduce heating and cooling costs. Moreover, being mineral-based, it does not emit volatile organic compounds, thus improving indoor air quality.

Applied as a semi-liquid foam, Airium makes it possible to reach every corner and, as it hardens, creates a durable and fire-resistant insulation solution, which also makes it unfavorable to insects and rodents. Additionally, it features a low CO₂ footprint and is suitable for both new construction and renovations, covering elements such as ceilings, walls, floors, and block infill.

Roofing solutions also play a key role in the quest for more sustainable and energy-efficient buildings. Holcim offers sustainable, high-performance shingles for residential roofing solutions, designed to last and with a smaller environmental footprint, including ice and water barriers. These shingles result in high performance, cost-effectiveness, and circularity, as plastic bags and tires are upcycled in each average-sized roof. For commercial roofing solutions, a wide range of green and cool roof systems are available to improve energy efficiency in urban areas. They play a key role in reducing the heat island effect, common in large urban centers where the landscape has gone from green to gray.

Green roofs, featuring vegetation, excel at insulation, effectively reducing both heating and cooling demands, while also serving as natural filters for air pollutants. In contrast, cool roof systems are designed to reflect a significant portion of solar radiation, minimizing heat absorption by buildings. In urban settings, where temperatures can soar due to the concentration of buildings and limited greenery, adopting these roofing solutions can yield widespread and beneficial effects.

In addition to roofing solutions, when considering sustainability in building use and the integration of nature into urban environments, there is a wide range of lining solutions available to address various challenges while maintaining aesthetics and performance. These options range from garden ponds to irrigation reservoirs and silage covers. Additionally, geomembranes offer a durable waterproofing solution suitable for various agricultural, industrial, and commercial applications, providing fast, easy, and safe installation. Lining solutions play a crucial role in enhancing energy efficiency in architecture by providing thermal insulation, air sealing, moisture control, and durability, ultimately contributing to reduced energy consumption, lower utility bills, and a more sustainable and comfortable built environment.

Protecting buildings over the long term is an integral part of making them sustainable in use, aligning with the principles of resource and energy efficiency, and durability. In this context, waterproofing solutions include protective products that serve functional and highly decorative purposes in public buildings and parks. Among their benefits are cost-effectiveness and ease of installation, achieved through multiple coating chemistries in single or multi-component systems with various installation and performance efficiencies, which ultimately reduces labor requirements and costs.
Driving circular construction
The use of recycled and demolition waste materials in construction is vitally important to foster environmental sustainability and drive circular construction in the industry. Construction and demolition activities generate millions of tons of waste worldwide each year. Holcim aims to recycle at least 10 million tons of demolition materials per year from construction by 2025. To achieve this vision, ECOCycle, a circular technology platform has been developed to recycle construction demolition materials into new building solutions without compromising performance. This range includes products such as cement, concrete, and aggregates for a broad spectrum of applications. All of these products contain between 10% and 100% recycled demolition materials.

Cement with ECOCycle in it, for example, contains at least 10% recycled demolition materials, thus closing the loop in construction. Concrete with ECOCycle is suitable for a wide range of applications, from buildings to infrastructure, and is completely recyclable at the end of its life cycle. Holcim's global range of circular aggregates contains up to 100% construction demolition materials and can be used in construction applications from roads to foundations.

Holcim's circular technology platform enables circular construction at scale, reducing the use of natural resources and promoting a global circular economy. Their positive impact on biodiversity, ecosystem regeneration, and contribution to a nature-positive future is achieved by recycling construction demolition materials into building materials, resulting in fewer natural resource extractions, reduced waste sent to landfills, and the implementation of a closed-loop system in construction, where new structures are built using reclaimed materials from old ones.

Overall, the fundamental strategy is to unite efforts from diverse perspectives to achieve a global impact on the decarbonization of buildings. Numerous building solutions already exist in contemporary industry, and it is undeniable that improvements in their processing and use can have a significant impact on our planet and people's quality of life. The journey toward global decarbonization of architecture is a multifaceted endeavor that requires collaboration between architects and designers, innovation by companies like Holcim, education, and advocacy. By uniting efforts from various perspectives and embracing sustainable building solutions, we can make a significant and positive impact on our planet and the built environment, enhancing the quality of life for current and future generations.
For more information about Holcim and solutions for decarbonizing buildings, visit the Driven by its purpose to build progress for people and the planet, Every month we explore a topic in-depth through articles, interviews, news, and architecture projects. We invite you to learn more about our ArchDaily Topics. And, as always, at ArchDaily we welcome the contributions of our readers; if you want to submit an article or project, contact us. Holcim is decarbonizing building, while improving living standards for all. empowers architects and developers across all regions to build sustainably. This series explores how cities of the future can be low-carbon, circular, and resilient. Holcim website or refer to the product catalog.

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archdaily topic 2023 decarbonize architecture

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How to Reduce the Carbon Footprint Through Architecture? Three Approaches Across the Building Lifecycle

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Through innovative solutions, architecture can lead the way in reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability throughout the life cycle of buildings.

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SANCAR, D. (2020). A Paradigm Shift for Sustainability in Architecture: “Unbuilt” as an Option. Retrieved from Archiol: https://www.archiol.com/post/a-paradigm-shift-for-sustainability-in-architecture-unbuilt-as-an-option

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© Dicle Sancar

"Sustainability in architecture is achieved with the use of design strategies in the built environment that reduce the negative environmental impact. Building an environment that is based on ecological principles and resource efficiency." (Archiol Competitions Sustainable Architecture - Competition Brief, n.d.). If the ecological design is the matter, we have to carry the responsibility [1] - or sometimes the burden- of our decisions on the built environment. Today, sustainable architecture has become a concept that is discussed quite commonly, yet understood poorly. It is possible to think of a building as architectural data and the natural or man-made environment as a system. Even if this data is qualified enough to serve without or minimum negative impact, it is still data that is given to the system and that occupies a certain space, thus, reduces the capacity of the system. What I mean is, even if we build all the buildings from now on with sustainability concerns, we will be still causing a certain amount of carbon footprint or we will be removing an untouched piece of nature, cutting down trees or we will be occupying a valuable open space within the city, which in total does not apply to the vision of sustainable architecture. As Jan Gehl states my point of view clearly "An endless number of green buildings doesn't make a sustainable city." (Rethinking the Future, n.d.). A building alone can be sustainable, but for the practice of architecture to accomplish the goals of sustainability, we should be considering the option of not to build -if to build is not necessary. Here are where the unbuilt gets on the stage. From my standpoint, there are several ways to discuss the unbuilt.

The second way to define the scope of the unbuilt can be open spaces, parks, and squares (diagram 2 of the image) which are, again, fairly important urban elements of architecture that allow the city to breathe both ecologically and mentally by relieving the tension caused by the rigidness and the density of buildings. The city needs a balance of buildings and gaps. Those gaps can contribute to sustainability if they have sufficient greenery and plantation to reduce the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere. They can provide fresh air which the buildings bereave from us. In addition to the ecological values of the gaps that equip the cities with greenery and fresh air, the next step is to transform this equipment into social public spaces which are significant for the health of a society, and this is possible with the unbuilt elements of the city. Again the question pops up, do we end up with a sustainable environment if we fill all the gaps in the cities with regular or sustainable buildings?

The last topic of the unbuilt can be our attitude towards the already built-up environment, namely the existing buildings (diagram 3 of the image) and architectural systems, and our decision not to build new ones. What I mean is, there is non-stop construction going in the cities without exactly knowing what for. Do you we need that many new buildings? Will they function the way they are assumed to do so? There are too many leftover spaces and abandoned buildings in and around the cities that have to is revitalized, repurposed, or restored if possible. Those "re-" methods are other vital tools that can be adapted to achieve sustainable architecture. Otherwise, those places turn into urban parasites and have the potential to become crime zones or unhealthy areas. While leaving them as such is not ecological, constructing too much is also not ecological. Constructing less protects the environment from being more damaged and the resources to are wasted unnecessarily. Even if the newly constructed buildings are sustainable, it would not mean much with that many dysfunctional and non-ecological buildings around. Also, such an approach is more sustainable in terms of economic and social aspects, since starting construction from the scratch is quite costly, and reconsidering the existing buildings that are currently not functioning well would be more beneficial for public health.

[1] Ecological design as defined by Van der Ryn and Cowan (1996, p.18): "Ecological design is an approach to designing products with special consideration for the environmental impacts of the product during its whole lifecycle." In the light of this definition that highlights the importance of "lifecycle", the word "responsibility" is preferred.

I have recently graduated from Middle East Technical University (METU). I have always been interested in how the natural environment and humans interact, how nature can inspire us in our creations and how can we create in coherence with our environment. Therefore, I mainly study sustainability, and ecological design and have an interest in adaptive use, reuse-repurpose. On a much smaller scale, I deal with recycling/upcycling household waste and combine them with natural materials in order to design art pieces and functional objects. I have the vision to turn this hobby into a greater attempt and find less harmful architectural solutions in terms of materials and design.

© Dicle Sancar

"Sustainability in architecture is achieved with the use of design strategies in the built environment that reduce the negative environmental impact. Building an environment that is based on ecological principles and resource efficiency." (Archiol Competitions Sustainable Architecture - Competition Brief, n.d.). If the ecological design is the matter, we have to carry the responsibility [1] - or sometimes the burden- of our decisions on the built environment. Today, sustainable architecture has become a concept that is discussed quite commonly, yet understood poorly. It is possible to think of a building as architectural data and the natural or man-made environment as a system. Even if this data is qualified enough to serve without or minimum negative impact, it is still data that is given to the system and that occupies a certain space, thus, reduces the capacity of the system. What I mean is, even if we build all the buildings from now on with sustainability concerns, we will be still causing a certain amount of carbon footprint or we will be removing an untouched piece of nature, cutting down trees or we will be occupying a valuable open space within the city, which in total does not apply to the vision of sustainable architecture. As Jan Gehl states my point of view clearly "An endless number of green buildings doesn't make a sustainable city." (Rethinking the Future, n.d.). A building alone can be sustainable, but for the practice of architecture to accomplish the goals of sustainability, we should be considering the option of not to build -if to build is not necessary. Here are where the unbuilt gets on the stage. From my standpoint, there are several ways to discuss the unbuilt.

The second way to define the scope of the unbuilt can be open spaces, parks, and squares (diagram 2 of the image) which are, again, fairly important urban elements of architecture that allow the city to breathe both ecologically and mentally by relieving the tension caused by the rigidness and the density of buildings. The city needs a balance of buildings and gaps. Those gaps can contribute to sustainability if they have sufficient greenery and plantation to reduce the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere. They can provide fresh air which the buildings bereave from us. In addition to the ecological values of the gaps that equip the cities with greenery and fresh air, the next step is to transform this equipment into social public spaces which are significant for the health of a society, and this is possible with the unbuilt elements of the city. Again the question pops up, do we end up with a sustainable environment if we fill all the gaps in the cities with regular or sustainable buildings?

The last topic of the unbuilt can be our attitude towards the already built-up environment, namely the existing buildings (diagram 3 of the image) and architectural systems, and our decision not to build new ones. What I mean is, there is non-stop construction going in the cities without exactly knowing what for. Do you we need that many new buildings? Will they function the way they are assumed to do so? There are too many leftover spaces and abandoned buildings in and around the cities that have to is revitalized, repurposed, or restored if possible. Those "re-" methods are other vital tools that can be adapted to achieve sustainable architecture. Otherwise, those places turn into urban parasites and have the potential to become crime zones or unhealthy areas. While leaving them as such is not ecological, constructing too much is also not ecological. Constructing less protects the environment from being more damaged and the resources to are wasted unnecessarily. Even if the newly constructed buildings are sustainable, it would not mean much with that many dysfunctional and non-ecological buildings around. Also, such an approach is more sustainable in terms of economic and social aspects, since starting construction from the scratch is quite costly, and reconsidering the existing buildings that are currently not functioning well would be more beneficial for public health.

[1] Ecological design as defined by Van der Ryn and Cowan (1996, p.18): "Ecological design is an approach to designing products with special consideration for the environmental impacts of the product during its whole lifecycle." In the light of this definition that highlights the importance of "lifecycle", the word "responsibility" is preferred.

I have recently graduated from Middle East Technical University (METU). I have always been interested in how the natural environment and humans interact, how nature can inspire us in our creations and how can we create in coherence with our environment. Therefore, I mainly study sustainability, and ecological design and have an interest in adaptive use, reuse-repurpose. On a much smaller scale, I deal with recycling/upcycling household waste and combine them with natural materials in order to design art pieces and functional objects. I have the vision to turn this hobby into a greater attempt and find less harmful architectural solutions in terms of materials and design.

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A Paradigm Shift for Sustainability in Architecture: "Unbuilt" as an Option

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What the words "sustainable architecture" first evoke in mind is probably highly associated with the process regarding the design...

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Baxi, S. (2023). Green Building: An Innovative Approach to Reducing Carbon Footprint. Retrieved from Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/green-building-innovative-approach-reducing-carbon-footprint-baxi/

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Definition and Concept of Green Building

Green building, at its core, is more than just an architectural trend. It embodies a philosophy and commitment that extends from the blueprint to the building's eventual purpose. This approach to design, construction, and operation is rooted in a singular objective: minimizing environmental impact. It's about creating structures that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout their life cycle.

While traditional construction often prioritizes cost, speed, or aesthetics, green building places the environment at the forefront of every decision. This doesn't mean compromising on other aspects; rather, it's about integrating them in a way that they complement and enhance the building's sustainability. The difference between the two is not just in the materials used or the energy consumed, but in the very ethos that drives the construction process.

The Urgency of Addressing the Carbon Footprint in the Construction Industry

The construction industry, as it stands, is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions. Data suggests that buildings and their construction together account for nearly 40% of total global carbon dioxide emissions. These figures are alarming, especially when considering the pressing need to combat climate change.

The repercussions of these emissions are profound. From rising sea levels to more frequent and severe weather events, the cascading effects of climate change threaten ecosystems, economies, and communities worldwide. Addressing the carbon footprint of the construction industry is not just about reducing numbers; it's about safeguarding our planet's future and ensuring a habitable environment for generations to come.

Broader Context of Green Technologies

Green building is but one piece of the larger puzzle of sustainable development. It intersects with a myriad of other green technologies and practices, each playing a crucial role in shaping a sustainable future. From renewable energy sources that power these buildings to waste management systems that handle construction debris, the realm of green building is deeply interconnected with other facets of sustainability.

As explored in previous articles, green technologies present a multifaceted approach to addressing environmental challenges. They are not isolated solutions but are part of a broader narrative that seeks to redefine our relationship with the environment. Green building, in this context, exemplifies how innovation, when guided by sustainability principles, can create solutions that are both impactful and essential.

As we delve deeper into the intricacies of green building in this article, it's vital to remember its place within the grand tapestry of sustainable technologies. It's a testament to human ingenuity and our collective pursuit of a harmonious coexistence with nature.

I. The Carbon Footprint of Traditional Construction

a. Overview of the Environmental Impact of Conventional Building Methods and Materials

Traditional construction, while effective in meeting immediate structural needs, often comes at a significant environmental cost. One of the primary reasons is the energy-intensive nature of conventional construction processes. From the extraction of raw materials to the transportation and assembly on-site, each step consumes vast amounts of energy, much of which is derived from fossil fuels.

Materials like concrete and steel, staples in traditional construction, have their own set of environmental implications. For instance, the production of cement, a key ingredient in concrete, is responsible for approximately 8% of the world's CO2 emissions. Steel production, too, is a major carbon emitter, given the energy-intensive smelting processes involved.

Moreover, construction sites generate substantial waste, from unused materials to demolition debris. Often, this waste ends up in landfills, contributing to environmental degradation and further carbon emissions as organic materials decompose.

b. Statistics on Emissions from Construction

The construction industry's carbon footprint is staggering. Recent data indicates that the sector is responsible for nearly 11% of global CO2 emissions. To put this into perspective, if the construction industry were a country, it would be the third-largest emitter of CO2, trailing only China and the United States.

Certain regions, particularly fast-developing ones like parts of Asia and the Middle East, have seen a surge in construction-related emissions. Rapid urbanization, coupled with a reliance on traditional construction methods, has exacerbated the industry's environmental impact in these areas.

c. The Lifecycle Carbon Footprint of Traditional Buildings

The environmental impact of a building doesn't end once construction is complete. In fact, the operational phase of a building, which includes heating, cooling, lighting, and maintenance, can account for up to 80% of its total carbon emissions over its lifespan. This ongoing energy consumption, especially if derived from non-renewable sources, significantly adds to the building's carbon footprint.

Furthermore, the concept of 'embodied carbon' has gained traction in recent years. It encapsulates the total greenhouse gas emissions associated with a building throughout its lifecycle, from the extraction of raw materials to its eventual demolition and disposal. Embodied carbon offers a holistic view of a building's environmental impact, emphasizing the need to consider both construction and operational phases.

As highlighted in previous articles, the environmental implications of these emissions are far-reaching. From accelerating climate change to degrading natural habitats, the consequences underscore the urgent need for sustainable construction methods and practices.

In the subsequent sections, we will explore how green building addresses these challenges, offering innovative solutions that not only reduce carbon emissions but also pave the way for a more sustainable future in the construction industry.

II. Principles of Green Building

a. Sustainable Site Development

The foundation of any green building initiative begins even before construction starts, with the selection of an appropriate site. Sustainable site development prioritizes locations that have minimal environmental impact, ensuring that natural habitats and ecosystems are preserved. This principle also emphasizes the importance of optimizing land use, which can involve strategies such as:

Water is a precious resource, and green buildings aim to use it judiciously. This principle revolves around:

One of the cornerstones of green building is the efficient use of energy. This involves:

The materials used in construction play a pivotal role in determining a building's sustainability. Green building emphasizes:

e. Indoor Environmental Quality

A building isn't just a structure; it's a space where people live, work, and interact. Green building ensures that this environment is healthy and conducive by:

By adhering to these principles, green building not only minimizes its environmental footprint but also creates spaces that are healthier and more comfortable for occupants.

III. Benefits of Green Building

a. Environmental Benefits

Green building practices have a profound positive impact on the environment. Some of the key environmental benefits include:

Beyond their environmental advantages, green buildings also offer substantial economic benefits:

The advantages of green building extend to societal benefits that improve the quality of life for individuals and communities:

Thus, the benefits of green building are multifaceted, offering a blend of environmental, economic, and social advantages. As highlighted in previous articles, these benefits are a testament to the broader potential of green technologies and practices in shaping a sustainable future for all.

IV. Green Building Techniques and Innovations

The evolution of green building has been marked by the introduction of innovative techniques and strategies that prioritize sustainability without compromising on functionality or aesthetics. These techniques not only reduce the environmental footprint of buildings but also enhance the living experience for occupants.

a. Passive Design Strategies

c. Rainwater Harvesting and Greywater Recycling Systems

d. Advanced Insulation Materials and Techniques

Modern insulation materials, such as aerogel, vacuum insulated panels, and phase-change materials, offer superior thermal performance in a compact form. These materials ensure that buildings remain energy-efficient, keeping interiors warm in winters and cool in summers.

e. Smart Home Technologies for Energy and Water Management

With the advent of the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart home systems, buildings can now be equipped with sensors and automated controls that optimize energy and water use in real-time. From smart thermostats that learn occupants' preferences to intelligent irrigation systems that water plants based on soil moisture levels, these technologies ensure sustainability without sacrificing convenience. The potential of these smart technologies has been explored in depth in previous articles on green technologies, emphasizing their role in the broader sustainability narrative.

Incorporating these techniques and innovations, green building stands at the forefront of sustainable development, offering solutions that are both environmentally responsible and user-centric. As the construction industry continues to evolve, these green building practices will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the built environment of the future.

V. Challenges and Barriers to Green Building

While the benefits of green building are evident and its necessity in the modern world is undeniable, the transition from traditional construction methods to sustainable practices is not without its challenges. These barriers, ranging from economic to sociocultural, can hinder the widespread adoption of green building techniques.

b. Regulatory and Bureaucratic Hurdles

c. Knowledge and Skill Gaps in the Construction Industry

Thus, while the challenges to green building are multifaceted, they are not insurmountable. With concerted efforts from policymakers, industry leaders, and communities, these barriers can be overcome, paving the way for a sustainable built environment that aligns with the broader goals of environmental conservation and sustainable development.

VI. Case Studies: Successful Green Building Projects Worldwide

Across the globe, architects, developers, and communities are embracing the principles of green building, leading to the creation of structures that are not only environmentally friendly but also innovative in design and function. These case studies offer a glimpse into the potential of green building and serve as inspiration for future projects.

a. The Bullitt Center (Seattle, USA)

b. Pixel Building (Melbourne, Australia)

c. Bahrain World Trade Center (Manama, Bahrain)

d. Khoo Teck Puat Hospital (Singapore)

e. The Edge (Amsterdam, Netherlands)

VII. The Future of Green Building

The horizon of green building is vast and promising. As we grapple with the pressing challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, the construction sector stands at the forefront of potential solutions. Here's a glimpse into what the future might hold for green building:

a. The Role of Technology and Innovation

b. Integration with Other Green Technologies

c. The Importance of Global Collaboration, Knowledge Sharing, and Standardization

As we stand at the crossroads of environmental challenges and technological advancements, the significance of green building emerges more prominently than ever. Through the lens of this article, we've journeyed from understanding the carbon-intensive nature of traditional construction to the transformative potential of sustainable building practices.

Green building is not merely an architectural or constructional trend; it represents a paradigm shift in our approach to the built environment. It intertwines with our broader sustainability goals, as highlighted in previous articles, emphasizing the holistic nature of our global sustainability efforts. By adopting green building practices, we are not just reducing our carbon footprint; we are also laying the foundation for a future where sustainable living and development become the norm rather than the exception.

The innovations and techniques discussed herein are testament to human ingenuity and our capacity to adapt and innovate in the face of challenges. However, the true potential of green building lies not just in these techniques but in the mindset shift they represent. It's a shift from short-term gains to long-term sustainability, from individual benefits to collective well-being, and from exploiting nature to coexisting with it.

Therefore, it's imperative to recognize that the responsibility of championing green building doesn't rest solely with architects, builders, or policymakers. It's a collective endeavor, requiring the commitment of every stakeholder, from governments and industries to communities and individuals.

The path to a sustainable future is paved with choices-choices that prioritize the environment, societal well-being, and economic viability. Green building is one such choice, and its widespread adoption can serve as a beacon for other sustainable practices.

In the words of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, "We can't just build now; we must build with a sense of future." Let this be our guiding principle as we strive to create structures that not only stand the test of time but also stand as symbols of our commitment to a sustainable future.

To all stakeholders reading this: the future is in our hands. Let's prioritize, invest, and champion green building practices, ensuring that our legacy is one of innovation, sustainability, and harmony with nature.

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Green Building: An Innovative Approach to Reducing Carbon Footprint

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Definition and Concept of Green Building Green building, at its core, is more than just an architectural trend. It embodies a philosophy and commitment that extends from the blueprint to the building's eventual purpose.

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Green Building 101: How does water efficiency impact a building? | U.S. Green Building Council. (2014, May 21).

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Green Building 101: How does water efficiency impact a building? | U.S. Green Building Council

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Green Building 101: How does water efficiency impact a building?

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Alliance, G. B. (2019). Green Building Certifications and frameworks. Green Building Alliance. https://gba.org/resources/frameworks-and-certifications/

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Coursera. (2023). Sustainable Cities: 6 Ways to Build a Greener Future. Retrieved from https://www.coursera.org/articles/sustainable-cities

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Cities in Scandinavia such as Oslo, Copenhagen, and Stockholm consistently rank highly on happiness and sustainability indexes. But what is a sustainable city? What are the most sustainable cities in the world?

There are countless frameworks that are being used to assess a city's social, environmental, and economic principles as they relate to sustainability. What we do know is that promoting green practices and policies alongside urban transformation has benefits for people, planet, and profit.

Learn about the characteristics of sustainable cities and why they're important to building a greener future.

What is a sustainable city?

A sustainable city is one that is designed to address social, environmental, and economic impact through urban planning and transformation. Goal 11 of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is to "make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable" [ 1].

According to a World Bank report, cities require good governance, integrated urban planning, and financial management to deliver four outcomes: robust economic growth, conservation of natural resources, mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and fostering inclusiveness and livability by reducing poverty [ 2].

Features of a sustainable city might look like affordable housing, public green spaces, walkable streets, and inclusive access to health care, education, and jobs.
Read more: Sustainable Development: Goals, Importance, and Career Guide
Benefits of greener cities

Less pollution and traffic

More peace, reduced stress

Conservation of biodiversity

Locally produced food

Increase in real estate valuation

Stronger ties to local communities

Cooler environment

There is no limit to the benefits of greener cities. Here are a few key benefits to know.

6 characteristics of sustainable cities

These are some of the characteristics that can pave the way to a greener future.

1. Access to public resources

Sustainable cities help residents achieve sustainability in everyday life by providing access to public resources. This might look like recreational facilities, libraries, museums, health centers, garbage collection services, and public transportation. Initiatives such as telecommunications, insurance, and technology centers contribute to stimulating public health and the economy, which uphold the "people" and "profit" pillars of sustainability.

2. Transportation

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the transportation sector accounted for the largest portion (27 percent) of total GHG emissions in 2020. This includes cars, trucks, planes, trains, and more [ 3]. Between 1990 and 2020, this number increased more than any other sector. People are traveling more than ever, and it's taking a toll on cities (and our earth).

Subways and other train systems are the most sustainable forms of public transportation. Cities that prioritize greening public transit benefit from tackling one of the main drivers of GHG emissions.

3. Green public spaces

It's no secret that parks, lakes, and tree-lined streets can be a welcome respite from a city's noise and crowds. Not only are green spaces good for public health, especially our mental and physical health, but they also help curb pollution and promote biodiversity. Urban farms and community gardens can supplement a neighborhood's diet with fresh organic produce and flowers.

Further, cities that build and design for walkability and bikeability benefit from more sustainable and enjoyable commutes, whether you're going to work or to a friend's house across town.

4. Green architecture

Approximately 34 percent of the world's energy demand comes from buildings, according to the UN Environment Programme [ 4]. The solution? Green buildings can reduce carbon emissions, plus they have cheaper electricity and water bills. In the long term, green architecture also benefits builders who can save on costs and receive tax incentives.

Building green from the ground up means introducing solar panels, smart heating and cooling systems, and natural building materials like stone or bamboo. In the US, the Green Building Council awards LEED certification for buildings that reduce their energy demand and water consumption.

5. Water conservation

Ensuring the resourceful management of water is another characteristic of sustainable cities. By 2050, nearly 70 percent of the world's population will live in cities [ 5]. Of those urban centers, 90 percent are located near coastal areas [ 5].

While these areas are at risk for natural disasters, especially as climate change increases the likelihood, water conservation practices such as rainwater harvesting and green infrastructure (restoring wetlands) can help cities maximize natural resources near the coastline.

6. Waste management

Another characteristic of sustainable cities is the way it disposes of waste. Households produce waste, but consider the amount of waste generated by offices, hotels, schools, and more. To tackle this problem, cities can adopt better recycling programs, stricter trash collection policies, and go paperless. Data-driven technologies can help monitor our consumption and contribute to sustainable waste innovation.

Most sustainable cities in the world
Here are the top 10 sustainable cities in the world:
So, what are the most sustainable cities in the world? The Arcadis Sustainable Cities Index, in its fifth edition of the report, ranks 100 of the world's cities based on 51 metrics and 26 indicator themes under the three pillars of sustainability: planet, people, and profit [ 6].

1. Oslo

2. Stockholm

3. Tokyo

4. Copenhagen

5. Berlin

6. London

7. Seattle

8. Paris

9. San Francisco

10. Amsterdam

It is important to note that there are numerous factors and frameworks for measuring sustainability and applying it to cities, so the lists of sustainable cities can be arbitrary. The list cited above is one of the most widely-accepted.

Learn more about sustainable cities

Boost your knowledge and skills for navigating urban transformations. Enroll in Lund University's highly rated course Greening the Economy: Sustainable Cities, part of the Sustainable Cities and Communities Specialization. You'll learn how sustainable cities fit within the context of climate change, while examining visions, experiments, and innovations in urban areas.

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Sustainable Cities: 6 Ways to Build a Greener Future

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Learn about the characteristics of sustainable cities and why they're important to building a greener future.

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Green Building Standards and Certification Systems | WBDG - Whole Building Design Guide. (n.d.).

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Introduction

Buildings have extensive direct and indirect impacts on the environment. During their construction, occupancy, renovation, repurposing, and demolition, buildings use energy, water, and raw materials, generate waste, and emit potentially harmful atmospheric emissions. These facts prompted the creation of green building standards, certifications, and rating systems aimed at mitigating the impact of buildings on the natural environment through sustainable design.

The push toward sustainable design increased with the launch of Building Research Establishment's Environmental Assessment Method ( BREEAM), the first green building rating system in the world. The U.S. Green Building Council ( USGBC) followed suit and developed and released criteria also aimed at improving the environmental performance of buildings through its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design ( LEED) rating system for new construction. LEED has continued to grow in prominence and now includes rating systems for existing buildings, interiors, and entire neighborhoods. Others also responded to the growing interest and demand for sustainable design including the Green Building Initiative (GBI), which was created to assist the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) in promoting its Green Building Guidelines for Residential Structures. Originally developed for Canada, GBI helped to make Green Globes available for use in the U.S. Additional rating systems have been developed that were influenced by these early programs but are tailored to their own national priorities and requirements or seek to go beyond the limits of current policy and building practices to address broader issues of sustainability such as net zero energy, living, regenerative, and restorative building concepts that improve the natural environment, or those that model nature's processes.

Green product standards have been in the marketplace since the 1980s and continue to increase in scope and number. Initially, many green product standards were developed in response to growing concerns for product toxicity and its impact on children's health and indoor environmental quality ( IEQ). Today, when growing concerns over climate change and resource depletion are more prominent and supported by research, the number and type of green product standards and certifications continue to grow. The focus has also expanded to include a broader range of environmental issues and the impacts of products during their manufacture, use, and reuse. While there is still no universal definition of a green product, these products are intended to meet claims that they offer environmental benefits and adhere to certain standards. (See also Optimize Building Space and Material Use)

There is a proliferation of standards, rating, and certification programs in the marketplace to help guide, demonstrate, and document efforts to deliver sustainable, high-performance buildings. There are hundreds of green product certifications in the world, many in use in the U.S., and the numbers continue to grow (Source: BuildingGreen). There are also green building rating programs in use around the world and they vary in their approach with some outlining prerequisites and optional credits, while others take a prescriptive approach, and still others suggest performance-based requirements that can be met in different ways for different products and project types. As a result, it can be challenging and time consuming determining which standards, certifications, and rating programs are most credible and applicable to a particular project. This page provides an introduction to some commonly used terms and an overview of the most widely recognized green building product standards, and building rating and certification programs currently in use with an emphasis on how they vary and some of the issues to consider when selecting them.

Description

A. Building Standards

A standard is a set of guidelines and criteria against which a product can be judged. Common standards related to building practices are created through consensus processes by organizations such as ANSI, ASTM, or ASHRAE. Supporting the governance of standards and certifications is the International Standards Organization ( ISO), which defines and develops worldwide standards that frequently become law or form the basis of industry norms. ISO defines a standard as: "a document, established by consensus, approved by a recognized body that provides for common and repeated use as rules, guidelines, or characteristics for activities or their results."

Requirements found in standards may either be prescriptive (identifying methods of achievement) or performance based (stating expectations of end results). Consensus based standards, those developed through a formal, voluntary consensus process that is exemplified by an open and due process have immediate buy-in, government support, and international influence. According to the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA) federal agencies are required by law to adopt existing private-sector voluntary consensus standards instead of creating proprietary, non-consensus standards. Standards frequently serve as incentives for improved performance. Many of the green product standards available today are proprietary or regulatory standards that have been developed outside of the formal ANSI and ISO consensus process. These types of standards may be more or less stringent than consensus standards and can include some level of transparency and public comment. However, many of these types of standards are trusted because they are associated with a group that has strong environmental credentials.

The ANSI/ASHRAE/USGBC/IES Standard 189.1-2017, Standard for the Design of High Performance Green Buildings except Low-Rise Residential Buildings provides minimum requirements for site, design, construction and operations in mandatory, code-enforceable language. This standard is comprehensive and includes chapters for site, water, energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and materials. For a detailed description on many other building codes and standards that address sustainability goals and requirements, see the Relevant Codes and Standards section below and Energy Codes and Standards.

B. Green Codes

Green building codes continue to be developed and adopted in the U.S. and abroad that seek to push the standard of building design and construction to new levels of sustainability and performance. Codes come in two basic formats: prescriptive and performance, with outcome-based becoming a developing third option. A Prescriptive path is a fast, definitive, and conservative approach to code compliance. Materials and equipment must meet a certain levels of stringency, which are quantified in tables. Performance-based codes are designed to achieve particular results, rather than meeting prescribed requirements for individual building components. Outcome-based codes for example, establish a target energy use level and provide for measurement and reporting of energy use to assure that the completed building performs at the established level. (See also: Outcome-Based Pathways for Achieving Energy Performance Goals.)

The unique difference between codes and building rating systems is that codes are mandatory. As green codes become adopted on a wide spread basis, their impact will change the building environment rapidly and extensively. When undertaking a project, whether it is new construction or a renovation, check to see if there is a state or local green code that will dictate the direction and scope your project must take.

The International Green Construction Code (IgCC) provides a comprehensive set of requirements intended to reduce the negative impact of buildings on the natural environment. It is a document which can be readily used by manufacturers, design professionals and contractors; but what sets it apart in the world of green building is that it was created with the intent to be administered by code officials and adopted by governmental units at any level as a tool to drive green building beyond the market segment that has been transformed by voluntary rating systems.

It was developed by the International Code Council (ICC) in association with cooperating sponsors ASTM International (ASTM) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Other organizations indicating their support include the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), and The Green Building Initiative (The GBI), producers of the Green Globes rating system. The IgCC was developed with the intent to be consistent and coordinated with the ICC family of Codes & Standards: the I-Codes. It is applicable to the construction of high performance commercial buildings, structures, and systems, including existing buildings subject to alterations and additions, utilizing both traditional and innovative construction practices. Residential occupancies are covered by reference to the ICC 700 National Green Building Standard (NGBS). High-rise residential buildings, however, may conform to either the IgCC or ICC 700. The IgCC also allows jurisdictions to choose ANSI/ASHRAE/USGBC IES Standard 189.1 as jurisdictional compliance option. ASHRAE Standard 189.1-2017, Standard for High-Performance Green Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings, is an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) in association with the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Because it was written in mandatory language, the IgCC is poised to produce environmental benefits on a massive scale: a scale impossible to attain with purely voluntary green building programs and rating systems.

The California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen Code) is Part 11 of the California Building Standards Code and was the first statewide "green" building code in the US. CAL Green is designed to save water and promote environmentally responsible, cost-effective, healthier places to live and work. The purpose of CALGreen is to improve public health, safety and general welfare by enhancing the design and construction of buildings through the use of building concepts having a reduced negative impact or positive environmental impact and encouraging sustainable construction practices in the following categories:

Planning and design

Energy efficiency

Water efficiency and conservation

Material conservation and resource efficiency

Environmental quality

C. Green Product Certifications

A certification is a confirmation that a product meets defined criteria of a standard. ISO defines certification as: "any activity concerned with determining directly or indirectly that relevant requirements are fulfilled."

Green product certifications are intended to outline and confirm that a product meets a particular standard and offers an environmental benefit. Many product labels and certification programs certify products based on life-cycle parameters, making them multi-attribute programs. These parameters include energy use, recycled content, and air and water emissions from manufacturing, disposal, and use. Others focus on a single attribute, such as water, energy, or chemical emissions that directly impact Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ).

A green product certification is considered most respected when an independent third-party is responsible for conducting the product testing and awarding the certification. Third-party means they are independent of the product manufacturer, contractor, designer, and specifier. Third-party labels and green product certification programs can be helpful in evaluating the attributes of green products because they validate that the product meets certain industry-independent standards. They can also offer greater assurance to consumers, designers, specifiers, and others that a product's marketing claims accurately reflect its green attributes. Many product certifications are also recognized within comprehensive green building rating systems such as LEED, Green Globes, BREEAM, and the National Green Building Standard. As a result, green product certifications are on the rise as market conditions change and the demand for greener products continues to increase. It is important to note that greenwashing, which is defined as the use of green claims that are not true or are unverifiable but used to sell products or a corporate image, has become commonplace as companies try to stay competitive in the green marketplace. (See also Evaluating and Selecting Green Products.)

To fully understand what a green certification represents and the quality of information it provides, the details of its requirements need to be reviewed carefully. The ISO defines different types of labels that can be used for products. Below is an outline of the ISO-defined labels in the 14000 series and what is being claimed. Product certifications available in the U.S. are mostly Type I and Type II labels while Type III labels are now required in France and becoming more common in Europe and for those U.S. manufacturers with an international focus.

ISO-defined Types of Green Product Certification Labels

Type I

ISO 14024

Seal of approval for multi-attribute requirements

Type II

ISO 14021

Verifiable single-attribute environmental claims for issues such as energy consumption, emissions, or recycled content. Can be first-party, self-declared manufacturer claims. However many manufacturers are beginning to seek third-party verification of those claims in response to industry demand.

Type III

ISO >14025

Comprehensive environmental product disclosure and detailed product information. Similar to an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)

Summary of Green Product Certifications

The following table, and the expanded information directly below it, outlines some of the most commonly used and respected green product certifications in the marketplace. Please see the Additional Resources section for more information on other programs not included in this page.

Product Certification

Single- or Multi-Attribute

Type of Standard or Certification

Managing Organization

Issue of Focus
Cradle to Cradle
Multi-Attribute

Third-party certification, Cradle to Cradle Certified CM Product Standard is managed and updated by the Institute's Certification Standards Board

Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute C2CPII

Building materials, interior design products, textiles and fabrics, paper and packaging, and personal and homecare products

Single-Attribute Product Certifications

ENERGY STAR -First established as a voluntary labeling program, Energy Star is a widely recognized government-run product certification label for energy efficient products. It is a joint program of the U.S. EPA and DOE. Energy Star-certified products include appliances, heating and cooling equipment, lighting, home electronics, commercial roofing, and office equipment. Energy Star standards are generally updated and made more stringent every two years. (See also Single-Attribute Building Rating System below.)

The Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPACT) requires federal agencies to buy either Energy Star products or products designated as energy efficient by the Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP), for which the requirements are included in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 23.203. Executive Order 13423 requires federal agencies to activate Energy Star "sleep" features on computers and monitors and mandates that federal agencies buy EPEAT* registered products. (For more information addressing federal requirements for Energy Star, click here)

WaterSense -A partnership program by the U.S. EPA, WaterSense seeks to protect the future of our nation's water supply by offering people a simple way to use less water with water-efficient products, new homes, and services. Established for water-efficient products, the program seeks to help consumers make smart water choices that save money and maintain high environmental standards without compromising performance. WaterSense products and services that have earned the label must be at least 20 percent more efficient without sacrificing performance. Look for the "WaterSense: Meets EPA Criteria" label, not just "WaterSense Partner". The "partner" label indicates that an organization or manufacturer has signed an agreement with EPA to promote water efficiency but does not address performance of a specific product.

Executive Order 13423 requires federal agencies to implement water-efficiency measures, including the purchase, installation, and implementation of water-efficient products and practices. Agencies must reduce water consumption intensity, relative to their fiscal year baseline, through cost-effective life-cycle measures by 2 percent annually (or 16 percent total).

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) -A third-party certification program established with the goal of promoting responsible forestry and certifying the resulting wood products. The standard is managed by the FSC while certification is awarded by third parties such as the Rainforest Alliance and Scientific Certification Systems. There are different standards for different forest products (FSC pure, FSC mixed, and FSC recycled) and different regions. The FSC chain of custody is a requirement of certification that follows the path of the wood product from forest to consumer. The FSC program uses a specific, prescriptive approach and provides assurance of good environmental and social stewardship of forests.

SCS Global Services -A third-party certification of claims for recycled content, biodegradable liquid products, and no-added formaldehyde products. SCS Global Services is a long-respected certifier that backs its certifications with vigorous and transparent standards. A number of products with this certification meet indoor air quality, recycled content, and FSC chain-of-custody requirements within green building rating systems including LEED, Living Building Challenge, and Green Globes.

Multi-Attribute Product Certifications

Green Seal -A third-party certification and labeling program that covers a wide range of products with sector-specific requirements, particularly consumable items for building operations and maintenance. Green Seal has been certifying products for many years and is an ISO 14020/14024 standards and Global Ecolabelling Network's Internationally Coordinated Ecolabelling System (GENICES). Green Seal considers the impacts of a product over its entire life cycle when developing a standard. Building products covered include paints, adhesives, lamps, electric chillers, windows, window films, and occupancy sensors. Green Seal is referenced in several LEED rating systems, and cleaning products for industrial and institutional use are referenced in LEED for Existing Buildings in Operations and Maintenance. They have also partnered with the WELL Building Standard, the Health Product Declaration Collaborative, and others tohelp align the cleaning services standards with these program requirements. Healthy Green Hotels and Healthy Green Schools are among their important programs.

The Cradle to Cradle CertifiedCM -A third-party, multi-attribute eco-label administered by the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute that assesses a product's safety to humans and the environment and design for future life cycles. The program provides guidelines to help businesses implement the Cradle to Cradle framework, which focuses on using safe materials that can be disassembled and recycled as technical nutrients or composted as biological nutrients. Unlike single-attribute eco-labels, the Cradle to Cradle Certified program takes a comprehensive approach to evaluating the design of a product and the practices employed in manufacturing the product. The materials and manufacturing practices of each product are assessed in five criteria categories: Product Circularity, Clean Air and Climate Protection, Water and Soil Stewardship, and Social Fairness.

GREENGUARD Certification Program-A third-party certification and label established in 2001 (formerly known as GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certification). GREENGUARD Children and Schools certification complies with California Section 01350, calling for emissions at half of California's more stringent thresholds. GREENGUARD certifies that a product meets thresholds for formaldehyde, total aldehydes, total volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and one-tenth of the threshold limit value (a regulatory benchmark) for many other compounds. The GREENGUARD Environmental Institute certifies products that comply with their rigorous formaldehyde, emissions, and chemical testing requirements.

Green Squared -Certification was developed by TCNA, and involves one industry, one standard, and one mark, and covers products used in a tile installation. As the first multi-attribute sustainability standard developed for tiles and tile installation materials, Green Squared uses the transparency and consensus of the ANSI process combined with third-party certification to evaluate, validate, and communicate products which have a positive impact on the environment and society. Green Squared covers product characteristics, manufacturing, end of product life management, progressive corporate governance, and innovation in an effort to establish sustainability criteria for products throughout their full life cycle. Green Squared acknowledges products which have been verified to be in conformance with ANSI A138.1. The easily-recognizable Green Squared mark helps architects, designers, and end users choose products and assured that the products they are choosing meet the industry's broad range of sustainability criteria. These products are accepted within LEED, IgCC, NAHB's Green Building Standard, and Green Globes.

International Green Mark (IGM) -An environmental labelling system created by the Gulf Organisation for Research & Development (GORD) which offers a robust and independent eco-labeled products certification process to manufacturers and suppliers to ensure that IGM eco-labeled products deliver high environmental performance and quality. By assessing and verifying the sustainable attributes of products, IGM presents an impartial statement on whether a product is less harmful to the environment than another similar yet unlabeled product. IGM schemes follow the requirements of ISO 17065 and ISO 17067. IGM is operated by the GORD Institute, a Centre of Excellence at GORD.

Natural Stone Sustainability Standard (ANSI 373) -The Standard examines and verifies numerous areas of natural stone production; effectively improving the baseline for the environmental performance of natural stone at the quarrying and fabrication stages of the process. The metrics used to define sustainable production in the dimension stone industry include energy/carbon, land impacts, ingredient transparency, social responsibility, chain of custody, and more. Certification is awarded at the Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum Levels. Points for using certified natural stone quarries and fabrication facilities are achievable within LEED and the Living Building Challenge through the use of this Standard. EPD and HPD labels for natural stone are also available.

Another category and approach to identifying and declaring the manufacturing, production, ingredients and make up of a product is also growing. Whether it is an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), a Health Product Declaration (HPD), a Declare Label, or the Living Product Challenge, there is a growing movement to seek full disclosure of a product within a life cycle framework and create a world of products that do no harm and improve the environment. Additionally, the JUST Label seeks to address social responsibility through transparency. These labels are starting to be accepted or required within the various green building rating systems, although labels do not yet exist for all products. For example, in LEED there is an option within the Materials and Resources category to achieve credits for transparency about the environmental life-cycle impacts of a product by utilizing an EPD. The Declare label is in use within the Living Building Challenge to meet the stringent materials requirements.

An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is an independently verified and registered document that communicates transparent and comparable information about the life-cycle environmental impact of products. The International EPD System is a global program for environmental declarations based on ISO 14025, TS/14027, 14040, and EN 15804. Their database currently contains more than 500 EPDs registered by 150 companies in 27 countries. Having an EPD for a product does not imply that the declared product is environmentally superior to alternatives. It is simply a transparent declaration of the life-cycle environmental impact. The relevant standard for Environmental Product Declarations is ISO 14025, where they are referred to as "type III environmental declarations". A type III environmental declaration is created and registered in the framework of a program, such as the International EPD System. An EPD may be used for many different applications, including green public procurement (GPP) and building assessment schemes. For example, within LEED, BREEAM, and other international green building rating systems, EPDs are used to encourage the purchasing of low carbon products with life-cycle information. See: environdec.com for more information.

Designers, specifiers, and owners are increasingly seeking transparent information on the ingredients in building products, and their associated health hazards. Health Product Declarations (HPD) provide a full disclosure of the potential chemicals of concern in products by comparing product ingredients to a wide variety of "hazard" lists published by government authorities and scientific associations. To achieve third-party verification, the HPD must have 100% disclosure of known ingredients and/or 100% disclosure of known hazards down to 1000 ppm. The Health Product Declaration (HPD) Open Standard consists of a defined Format and Instructions for reporting about the contents of building products along with the associated health and other related information. The Standard is maintained and sponsored by the Health Product Declaration Collaborative. Version 2.2 of the HPD Open Standard became effective in May 2020. All versions of the HPD are recognized within LEED v4 Material Ingredient credits. Within LEED v4.1 Materials and Resources credit: Building Product Disclosure and Optimization: Material Ingredients, HPDs can contribute to earning points as well. For more information see the The Health Product Declaration® Collaborative (HPDC).

Human and environmental health considerations have emerged as a crucial factor in material selection. Declare is a platform for manufacturers of ecologically sound products to demonstrate market leadership and secure a competitive advantage. Declare takes complex chemical analysis and raw material source location information and provides it to consumers in an elegant, easy to use 'nutrition label'. Declare gives manufacturers an expanded point of entry into the most groundbreaking restorative projects in the world. Project teams pursuing the Living Building Challenge can use the Declare product database and label to select products that meet the Living Building Challenge's stringent materials requirements, streamlining the materials specification and certification process to ensure that Declare products are free of chemicals on the Red List. Declare labels can also be used in LEED v4.1 in the Material Ingredient Reporting and Material Ingredient Optimization credit options. Additionally Declare Labels are in alignment with the WELL Building Standard. The Declare label is valid for a 12-month period. After this period, manufacturers must renew by paying a renewal fee and either confirm that the information contained within the Product Declaration Form has not changed or submit a new form. See: Living Future- Declare for more information.

According to the International Living Future Institute, " The Living Product Challenge is a philosophy first, an advocacy tool second, and a certification program third. It is intended to guide the manufacturing of thousands of things people are surrounded by on a daily basis, and to give direction and support to those who make the goods that are used. Within the larger Living Future Challenge framework that covers the creation of Living Buildings, Communities and Food Systems, the Living Product Challenge focuses on manufactured goods. It is a unified tool for transformative thought, allowing a future to be envisioned that is Socially Just, Culturally Rich and Ecologically Restorative. The Living Product Challenge 2.0 is comprised of seven performance categories, or "Petals": Place, Water, Energy, Health and Happiness, Materials, Equity and Beauty. Petals are subdivided into a total of 20 Imperatives, each of which focuses on a specific sphere of influence. This compilation of Imperatives can be applied to almost every conceivable product, of any size, manufactured in any location-be it a new innovation or a reinvention of an existing item." Living products are informed by nature, using the principles of biomimicry and biophilia. They are made using processes powered only by renewable energy. They improve one's quality of life while also being beautiful and functional. For more information see: Living Product Challenge.

The International Living Future Institute's JUST program is a voluntary disclosure program and tool for all types and sizes of organizations. JUST is a call to social justice action. It is not a verification or certification program. Rather, the program provides an innovative transparency platform for organizations to reveal much about their operations, including how they treat their employees and where they make financial and community investments. In a similar fashion to the Living Building Challenge's Declare Program, the JUST 2.0 Program acts somewhat as a "nutrition label" for socially just and equitable organizations. This approach requires reporting on a range of organization-and employee-related indicators. Each of the indicator metrics asks for simple yet specific and measurable accountabilities in order for the organization to be recognized at a One, Two, or Three Star Level, which is then summarized elegantly on a label. Organizations can use the label on their website or marketing to demonstrate their commitments to these issues. JUST marks a new era of corporate transparency. See: About JUST for more information.

D. Green Building Rating and Certification Systems

Both standards and product certifications will play a role in determining the level of sustainability or performance of a product. However, each must be considered as part of a larger process, integrating them into the overall project goals to ensure the entire project is sustainable.

Green building rating or certification systems broaden the focus beyond the product to consider the project as a whole. Rating systems are a type of building certification system that rates or rewards relative levels of compliance or performance with specific environmental goals and requirements. Rating systems and certification systems are frequently used interchangeably.

Green building rating and certification systems require an integrated design process to create projects that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building's life-cycle: from siting to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and demolition. A few of these programs are single-attribute, focusing solely on water or energy, while others are multi-attribute addressing emissions, toxicity, and overall environmental performance in addition to water and energy. While the philosophy, approach, and certification method vary across these the systems, a common objective is that projects awarded or certified within these programs are designed to reduce the overall impact of the built environment on human health and the natural environment.

Green building rating systems exist to address every project type from single-family houses and commercial buildings to entire neighborhoods. There are rating systems available for new construction, which focus on decisions made in the planning and design process and actions taken through construction, as well as for existing buildings, which focus on operations and maintenance throughout the life of the building. A primary reason for the creation of rating systems is the need to more clearly define, implement, and measure green strategies and their outcomes and impacts. Architects are also looking for help translating the goals of sustainability into design criteria. Because these goals are based on an evaluation of environmental performance, there is also an implicit need to assess the expected performance of the design and judge its level of success at achieving the desired goals. Given the broad scope of the sustainability agenda, architects need a way to organize this long list of criteria for green design. Which are most important? How to compare dissimilar goals? How do sustainability goals support or enhance other project goals? Do they conflict?

Federal, state, and municipal agencies across the country including the General Services Administration (GSA), Department of Energy, Department of Health and Human Services, and the Environmental Protection Agency, continue to lead in incorporating energy efficiency and sustainability by following federal mandates and green building guidelines in the design, construction, and renovation of Federal facilities. Most states and many major cities have also incorporated green into their internal building requirements for new construction.

To determine which standard, certification, or rating system should be used, ask the following:

Who the organization is that is making the assessment?

Is it being done by a first-party, second-party, or third-party?

A first-party assessment is one that comes directly from an organization that is associated with the entity making the claim or who may benefit from the claim. A second-party assessment is performed by an interested party such as a trade association. A third-party assessment is conducted by an independent party that has no financial interest or ties to the outcome of the assessment.

According to RSMeans there are four principles that should be considered when evaluating a building rating or certification system:

Science-based - Results and decisions must be reproducible by others using the same standard.

Transparent - Standards and process for awarding the certification should be transparent and open for examination.

Objective - Certification body should be free of conflict.

Progressive - Standards should advance industry practices, not simply reward business as usual.

Why Pursue a Green Building Rating or Certification?

The reasons for pursuing a green building certification for a project are varied. Certification through any rating system provides verification of the green nature of the project, and can be a valuable educational and marketing tool for owners and design and construction teams through the process of creating a more sustainable building. Green building certification also provides incentives for clients, owners, designers, and users to develop and promote highly sustainable construction practices. It is important to note that a building does not have to be certified to be sustainable and well-built.

The guidelines within rating systems also help to clarify a market filled with "green" options. Rating systems also clearly outline what green standards need to be followed and what types of green products should be included in construction specifications.

Ultimately, the type of certification system pursued for a project depends upon that singular project; none of these certification systems are one-size-fits all. The dynamic nature of projects might prohibit one system but favor another. The choice is dependent upon the uniqueness of each project and the project needs and requirements such as the project location, size, budget, and overall project goals. Also comparing essential issues such as cost, ease of use, and building performance will help determine which building rating system is applicable and which certification level is possible.

Building rating and certification systems are in a state of change and evolution and continue to be refined to reflect new standards and goals for achieving ever higher levels of sustainability. So it is essential to investigate the most current versions of these programs to gain an understanding of particular requirements that must be met in order to achieve the best results.

Benefits of Using Green Building Standards and Certification Systems

There are a wide range of economic and environmental benefits to sustainable design, often achieved through the use of standards, rating, and certification systems. According to a study of LEED certified buildings , the USGBC has found that energy, carbon, water, and waste can be reduced, resulting in savings of 30 to 97% respectively. Operating costs of green buildings can also be reduced by 8-9% while increasing in value up to 7.5%. Many sustainable buildings have also seen increases of up to 6.6% on return on investment, 3.5% increases in occupancy, and rent increases of 3%. Other benefits of green buildings, such as higher productivity and increased occupant health, have been attributed to better indoor environmental quality, increases in natural daylighting, and healthier materials and products within green buildings.

In a similar study by the GSA , 12 sustainable buildings that were analyzed from a whole building perspective cost less to operate, have excellent energy performance, and have occupants that are more satisfied with the overall building than the occupants in typical commercial buildings. The 12 GSA buildings were compared to industry standard performance of energy, water, maintenance and operations, waste, recycling, transportation, and occupant satisfaction metrics.

While these benefits are possible, it is important to note that they are dependent upon factors such as climate, topography, timing, credit synergies, and local building standards.

Summary of Green Building Rating and Certification Systems

The following table and the expanded information directly below it outlines several of the most commonly used and respected green building rating and certification systems in the U.S. marketplace.

Building Rating or Certification System

Single- or Multi- Attribute

Type of Standard or Certification

Managing Organization

Issues / Areas of Focus

Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM)
Multi-Attribute

Green building rating and certification system through on-site independent third-party verification for:

New Construction

In-Use

Refurbishment & Fit Out

Communities

Infrastructure

BRE Global

Performance in:

No prerequisites for In-Use

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
Multi-Attribute

Green building rating and certification system through independent third-party verification for:

U.S. Green Building Council

Performance in:

Green Globes
Multi-Attribute

Green building guidance and assessment program for:

Existing buildings

New construction

Green Building Initiative in the U.S.
BOMA Canada

Environmental assessment areas to earn credits in:

Energy

Indoor Environment

Site

Water Efficiency

Materials

Project Management

No prerequisites

Living Building Challenge
Multi-Attribute

International Living Future Institute

Passive House Institute US
Multi-Attribute

Performance based passive building standard

Third-party RESNET approved quality assurance/quality control

Earns U.S. DOE Zero Energy Ready Home status

Includes HERS rating

Passive House Institute US

Any type of building.

New focus areas include:

air tightness requirements

source energy limit

space conditioning criteria

net zero energy

Multi-Attribute

Third-party verified rating system for development projects located on sites with or without buildings including:

Open spaces

Streetscapes and plazas

Commercial

Residential

Educational/Institutional

Administered by GBCI

Performance criteria in the areas of:

Site Context

Water

Soil & Vegetation

Human Health & Well-being

Materials Selection, and more

WELL Building Standard
Multi-Attribute

Performance based standard and certification program for:

New and Existing Buildings

New and Existing Interiors

Core and Shell Retail

Retail

Education Facilities

Restaurant

Commercial Kitchen

Multifamily Residential

Administered by the International WELL Building Institute™ (IWBI)

Measures attributes of buildings that impact occupant health by looking at ten factors: Air, Water, Nourishment, Light, Movement, Thermal Comfort, Sound, Materials, Mind, Community, and Innovation.

Multi-Attribute

New Construction

Existing Buildings

Center for Active Design

Fitwel's seven health impact categories are: Impacts Surrounding Community Health, Reduces Morbidity and Absenteeism, Supports Social Equity for Vulnerable Populations, Instills Feelings of Well-Being, Enhances Access to Healthy Foods, Promotes Occupant Safety, and Increases Physical Activity

International Programs

BCA Green Mark Scheme
(Singapore)

Multi-Attribute

Benchmarking scheme that aims to achieve a sustainable built environment by incorporating best practices in environmental design and construction, and the adoption of green building technologies.

Building and Construction Authority (BCA)

Rates buildings according to five key criteria:

Energy efficiency

Water efficiency

Environmental protection

Indoor environmental quality, and

Other green and innovative features that contribute to better building performance.

Multi-Attribute

Comprehensive standard and supporting process covering all building types, including mixed use complexes, both new and existing to assess, improve, certify, and label the environmental performance of buildings

Business Environment Council

Performance and assessment in:

Site aspects

Material aspects

Water use

Energy use

Indoor environmental quality

Innovations and additions

Multi-Attribute

JSBC (Japan Sustainable Building Consortium) and its affiliated sub-committees

Multi-Attribute

A universal standard and a certification system for residential and commercial structures.

International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group

Assessment areas include:

Global Sustainability Assessment System (Middle East and North Africa)
Multi-Attribute

An integrated and performance-based rating system for buildings and infrastructure

GSAS Trust

Assessment areas include:

Urban Connectivity

Site

Energy

Water

Materials

Cultural & Economic Values

Management & Operations

Indoor Environment

Green Star SA
(South Africa)

Multi-Attribute

Green building rating system for:

Office

Retail

Multi-unit residential

Green Building Council of South Africa administers program
Independent assessors to assess and score projects

Categories assessed in:

Pearl Rating System for Estidama
(UAE)

Multi-Attribute

Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council

Assessment of performance in:

Integrated Development Process

Natural Systems

Livable Communities

Precious Water

Resourceful Energy

Stewarding Materials

Innovating Practice

Single-Attribute Green Building Rating Systems

Energy Star Rating System -is a rating system created by the U.S. EPA and DOE that uses a benchmarking method to assess a building's energy and water use. (Please note that Energy Star also has a product certification program. (See also Single-Attribute Product Certification above.)

ENERGY STAR states that, "statistically representative models are used to compare your building against similar buildings from a national survey conducted by the Department of Energy's Energy Information Administration. This national survey, known as the Commercial Building Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS), is conducted every four years, and gathers data on building characteristics and energy use from thousands of buildings across the United States. Your building's peer group of comparison are those buildings in the CBECS survey that have similar building and operating characteristics. A rating of 50 indicates that the building, from an energy consumption standpoint, performs better than 50% of all similar buildings nationwide, while a rating of 75 indicates that the building performs better than 75% of all similar buildings nationwide." Keep in mind that certification is given on an annual basis and must be verified by a professional engineer or registered architect.

To receive an Energy Star rating for a New Home, Home Improvement, or Business, a project's energy usage must be tracked with the online Portfolio Manager and receive a score of 75 or more.

Multi-Attribute Green Building Rating Systems

Outlined below are the building rating systems most commonly in use within the U.S. in the private and public sectors. Additionally, international programs are included to provide a reference point for those developing projects outside the U.S. These programs are always in a state of evolution and change, responding to market trends and demands, owners, users, and influencers in the green building arena. Before starting any project, a review of the project goals in conjunction with the intent and requirements of each rating system will help determine which is the most appropriate rating system to utilize. There are differences to the various programs including costs, standards that apply, points (full or partial) that can be achieved, life-cycle assessment use, and variations in ongoing evaluation and documentation required, among many others.

BREEAM was launched by BRE (Building Research Establishment), a world leading, multidisciplinary building science organization. BREEAM was the world's first environmental assessment method for buildings and is defined by building science and research. BREEAM has served as the basis for many of the green building certification systems, including LEED and Green Globes. BREEAM is used in 93 countries around the world, with more than 2,326,200 projects registered and 565,000+ certificates issued. BREEAM aims to deliver sustainable solutions, encourage a holistic approach to sustainability that is based on sound science and measures what is important, and improve building environmental performance. Performance is measured in 9 categories: Management, Health & Well-being, Energy, Transport, Water, Materials, Waste, Land Use & Ecology, and Pollution. Innovation is rewarded through exemplary credits within specific issues. Each category is weighted to encourage projects to focus on the categories with the highest environmental impact and minimum standards are set to ensure that key aspects of performance across the standard are met to achieve the higher levels of certification. This provides a level of flexibility for use while maintaining the rigor of the standard.

The standards are set by building life-cycle stage and define the building types that are included. Where a building type is not included, BREEAM offers a Bespoke service that tailors the criteria in the existing standards to the development's specific use, sustainability opportunities and its location without compromising the rigor of the standard. The BREEAM standards are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect the latest building science research and knowledge.

BREEAM provides online tools to facilitate the benchmarking and certification process. Project teams select an Assessor, trained and licensed by BRE, to verify the performance described is accurate and supported by evidence required by the standard. The Assessor submits an assessment report to BRE, detailing how they confirmed compliance with the BREEAM criteria and provides the supporting evidence. The report is subject to a quality assurance process and once passed, the certificate is issued. For all BREEAM rating systems other than In-Use, there are five ratings: Pass (1 Star), Good (2 Stars), Very Good (3 Stars), Excellent (4 Stars) and Outstanding (5 Stars). BREEAM In-Use has six ratings, with Acceptable (1 Star) as the lowest rating and Pass (2 Stars) through Outstanding (6 Stars) above. For New Construction and Refurbishment and Fit Out, an interim certificate can be issued at the Design Stage and the final certificate issued once construction is complete. On-site visits are required for certification.

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-was created by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), for rating design and construction practices that continue to define green buildings in the United States and around the world. LEED is used throughout North America as well as in more than 150 countries with over 110,000 projects currently registered and certified across the globe. Hundreds of state governments, cities, towns, and counties have enacted sustainable legislation, ordinances, or policies, many of which specifically call for LEED certification.

LEED consists of credits which earn points in several categories including: Integrative Process, Location and Transportation, Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality, Innovation, and Regional Priority. One hundred and ten points are available across these categories with mandatory prerequisites such as minimum energy and water-use reduction, recycling collection, and tobacco smoke control. Within each category are credits that pertain to specific strategies for sustainability, such as the use of low-emitting products, reduced water consumption, energy efficiency, access to public transportation, recycled content, renewable energy, and daylighting. Since its inception, LEED standards have become more stringent as the market has changed and expanded to include distinct rating systems that address different building types: New Construction, Existing Buildings, Commercial Interiors, Core & Shell, Schools, Retail, Healthcare, Homes, Cities and Communities, and more.

The LEED certification process takes place at LEED Online. Project teams are required to compile documentation to show compliance with LEED requirements and upload this documentation to the LEED Online website. The documentation is then reviewed by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI); a LEED certification is earned if all prerequisites and a sufficient number of credits are earned. There are four levels of LEED certification: Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. There are no on-site visits required and certification can occur upon completion of construction. However, buildings can be recertified in order to measure performance. LEED v4.1 also places a greater emphasis in the credits on operational and embodied carbon.

Green Globes -originated in Canada and was then brought to the U.S. by the Green Building Initiative (GBI). It is now cited in many Federal, State, and Municipal mandates.

Buildings are rated on a 1,000 point scale spread across seven categories: Energy, Indoor Environment, Site, Water Efficiency, Materials, and Project Management. Users can indicate that certain credits may not be applicable to a project, a feature unique to Green Globes. It also does not have prerequisites. A Green Globes rating requires a Green Globes Assessor to perform an onsite assessment of the building. This ensures that the self-reported claims made in the online documentation are verified. Both new construction and existing buildings and interiors can be evaluated using Green Globes; commercial or multifamily.

The first step toward a Green Globes certification is completing a self-reported online assessment survey, which is required at various stages throughout design and construction. At the construction documents phase and after substantial completion, a Green Globes Assessor will perform a site visit to verify the claims made in the survey. A Green Globes certification of one to four globes can then be earned once verification is confirmed.

Living Building Challenge (LBC) -is a performance-based system initially launched by the Cascadia Green Building Council. The International Living Future Institute (ILFI) is the umbrella organization for both the Cascadia Green Building Council and the Living Building Challenge.

The LBC makes stringent demands such as 100% zero energy, 100% net zero water, on-site renewable energy, and 100% recycling or diversion of construction waste. It examines site, water, energy, materials, health, equity, and beauty. All of its tenets are mandatory making it the most rigorous green building certification system in the market today. An on-site audit must occur by a member of the International Living Future Institute (ILFI)

After online registration, projects must join the living building community where discussions concerning compliance are held, and documentation occurs. Certification occurs twelve months after project completion, with an on-site audit to ensure compliance.

ZE -The ILFI also provides a certification option for a Zero Energy Building (ZE) under its umbrella of the Living Building Challenge certification. These buildings have 100% of their energy needs supplied by on-site renewable energy on a net annual basis. The ZE Certification verifies that a building is truly operating as claimed, harnessing energy from the sun, wind, or earth to exceed net annual demand. To earn this certification, a building must meet five requirements of the LBC:

Limits of Growth

Zero Energy

Rights to Nature

Beauty and Spirit

Inspiration and Education.

According to ILFI, nearly any building can become ZE-certified: new or operational, anywhere in the world.

Additionally, the ILFI offers the Living Community Challenge, Core Certification, and Zero Carbon Certification.

Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) -administers a climate-specific passive building standard and certification system that was developed under a DOE/Building America grant specifically to address complex US climates. Buildings designed and built to the PHIUS+ 2015 Passive Building Standard consume 86% less energy for heating and 46% less energy for cooling (depending on climate zone and building type) when compared to a code-compliant building. The Phius climate-specific passive building standards guide designers and builders in the design and construction of passive building worldwide. They provide a quality-and-conservation-first framework for net zero building. They are internationally applicable and grounded in building science, best practices, and the quality assurance necessary to deliver optimal results. There are certified projects in South Korea, Japan, China, and Israel. In North America, PHIUS is the leading educational institute with most certified passive building professionals trained in North America. PHIUS is also the leading certifier of passive houses and buildings with 95% of all passive construction currently underway. The German Institute is also active in the US and has certified under their program to date about 5% of all passive building construction.

SITES -Administered by Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), the Sustainable Sites Initiative (SITES) offers a comprehensive rating system designed to distinguish sustainable landscapes, measure their performance and elevate their value. SITES certification is for development projects located on sites with or without buildings-ranging from national parks to corporate campuses, streetscapes to homes, and more. SITES is used by landscape architects, designers, engineers, architects, developers, policy-makers and others to align land development and management with innovative sustainable design. Land is a crucial component of the built environment and can be planned, designed, developed and maintained to protect and enhance the benefits we derive from healthy functioning landscapes. SITES helps create ecologically resilient communities and benefits the environment, property owners, and local and regional communities and economies. Resources are available to help designers understand how SITES interfaces with LEED. For example, if a project earns SITES Gold, it automatically earns credits in the LEED Sustainable Sites category.

WELL-is a performance-based system for measuring, certifying, and monitoring features of the built environment that impact human health and well-being by looking at ten factors, or concepts. They include: Air, Water, Nourishment, Light, Movement, Thermal Comfort, Sound, Materials, Mind, Community, and Innovation.

WELL is grounded in a body of medical research that explores the connection between the buildings where people spend more than 90 percent of their time, and the health and wellness impacts on occupants. WELL Certified spaces and WELL Core and Shell Compliant developments can help create a built environment that improves the nutrition, fitness, mood, sleep patterns and performance of its occupants. WELL is composed of over 100 Features that are applied to each building project, and each WELL feature is designed to address issues that impact the health, comfort, or knowledge of occupants. Many WELL Features intended to improve health are supported by existing government standards or other standards-setting organizations. WELL Features are categorized as either Preconditions-necessary for baseline WELL Certification or Compliance, or Optimizations -optional enhancements, which together determine the level of certification above baseline certification. The Features of WELL can be applied across many real estate sectors, and WELL v2 is optimized for commercial and institutional office buildings. WELL is further organized into Project Typologies which take into account the specific set of considerations that are unique to a particular building type or phase of construction. For WELL v2, project typologies include: New and Existing Buildings, New and Existing Interiors, Core and Shell, and pilot programs in Retail, Education Facilities, Restaurant, Commercial Kitchen, and Multifamily Residential.

Fitwel is the world's leading certification system committed to building health for all. Fitwel is implementing a vision for a healthier future where all buildings and communities are enhanced to strengthen health and well-being. Fitwel was originally created by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention and the U.S. General Services Administration. The CDC remains the research and evaluation partner for Fitwel. The Center for Active Design is the licensed operator of Fitwel.

Certification is available for New Construction and Existing projects. The Fitwel Standard provides tailored scorecards to optimize a project. Scorecards include more than 55 evidence-based design and operational strategies that enhance buildings by addressing a broad range of health behaviors and risks. Projects are awarded a Star Rating from one to three stars The New Construction Certification applies to projects currently in the design stage or under construction and consists of two certification types: Design (prior to occupancy) and Built (post occupancy). A single project or entire portfolio can be certified. The Certification is valid for three years. After this time period, recertification can be initiated. Fitwel's seven health impact categories are: Impacts Surrounding Community Health, Reduces Morbidity and Absenteeism, Supports Social Equity for Vulnerable Populations, Instills Feelings of Well-Being, Enhances Access to Healthy Foods, Promotes Occupant Safety, and Increases Physical Activity.

International Green Building Rating Systems

There are many international green building design systems that also set up their criteria through a nationalistic focus, keeping local standards and codes in mind. They include:

BCA Green Mark Scheme-Based in Singapore, Green Mark was launched by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) to promote environmental awareness in the construction and real estate sectors. The BCA Green Mark Scheme rates buildings according to five key criteria including: energy efficiency, water efficiency, environmental protection, indoor environmental quality, and other green and innovative features that contribute to better building performance. The program outlines a six step scheme that also offers cash incentives to developers, especially focused on addressing improvements to existing construction in areas such as energy use reduction and materials conservation. BCA Green Mark is tailored for the topical climate and is also aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

BEAM -Based in Hong Kong, BEAM is a comprehensive standard and supporting process covering all building types, including existing and newly constructed mixed use complexes. BEAM is an initiative that assesses, improves, certifies, and labels the environmental performance of buildings. It is a voluntary program developed in partnership with, and adopted by the industry. BEAM is intended to: stimulate demand for more sustainable buildings in Hong Kong and other regions, giving recognition for improved performance and minimizing false claims; provide a common set of performance standards that can be pursued by developers, designers, architects, engineers, contractors and operators; reduce the environmental impacts of buildings throughout the planning, design, construction, management and demolition life cycle; and increase awareness in the building community, and ensure that environmental considerations are integrated at the beginning of a project.

BEAM assessments are currently undertaken by the Business Environment Council (BEC), an independent, nonprofit, environmental information center, under the guidance of the BEAM Society Executive Committee. Certification can only be issued upon building completion due to a significant number of credits being based on actions taken during construction and upon completion.

CASBEE -in Japan is composed of four assessment tools corresponding to the building life cycle. "CASBEE Family" is the collective name for these four tools and the expanded tools for specific purposes. The CASBEE assessment tools are CASBEE for Pre-design, CASBEE for New Construction, CASBEE for Existing Building and CASBEE for Renovation, to serve at each stage of the design process. Each tool is intended for a separate purpose and target user, and is designed to accommodate a wide range of uses (offices, schools, apartments, etc.) in the evaluated buildings.

CASBEE covers the assessment fields of energy efficiency, resource efficiency, local environment, and indoor environment. Both indoor and outdoor spaces are considered as part of the assessment but are assessed separately.

EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies)-is a green building certification system for new residential and commercial buildings in emerging markets. The program, which engages financiers, developers, regulators, and homeowners, shows property developers how fast and affordable it is to construct resource-efficient and Zero Carbon buildings, enabling them to pass value directly to building owners and tenants. EDGE enables design teams and project owners to assess the most cost-effective ways to incorporate energy and water-saving options into their buildings. An innovation of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group that focuses on private sector development, EDGE consists of a web-based software application, a universal standard, and a certification system.

Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) -the first integrated and performance-based green building rating system in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, designed for assessing and rating buildings and infrastructure for their sustainability impacts. The unique green building framework was developed by the Gulf Organisation for Research & Development (GORD) in collaboration with TC Chan Centre at the University of Pennsylvania, and the School of Architecture at Georgia Institute of Technology, and other reputed houses of expertise. GSAS Trust is the certification body responsible for administrating and issuance of GSAS certificates. For more than a decade, GSAS Trust has been helping public and private organizations in their pursuit towards green transformation through its comprehensive suite of services. The GSAS framework provides quantitative measures to assess the environmental footprint for a project over its entire life cycle including the design, construction, and operations phases covering more than 50 key performance indicators. In addition, each certified project must pass the threshold of achieving at least 30% in energy saving, carbon reduction and water saving. GSAS has more than 1,500 registered projects with an equivalent registered assessed area of more than 2 billion sq. ft. in Qatar and the GCC region. Projects on a macro level include districts, neighborhoods, and infrastructure projects, where on a micro level a wide range of building typologies are assessed such as commercial, residential, sports, healthcare, schools, educational, hospitality, and industrial buildings.

Green Star SA -was developed by The Green Building Council of South Africa, and is based on the Australian Green Building Council tools to provide the property industry with an objective measurement for green buildings and to recognize and reward environmental leadership in the property industry. Each rating tool reflects a different market sector (office, retail, multi-unit residential, etc.). The objectives of the Green Star SA rating tools are to: establish a common language and standard of measurement for green buildings, promote integrated, whole building design, raise awareness of green building benefits, recognize environmental leadership, and reduce the environmental impact of development.

Green Star SA Certification is a formal process which involves a project using a Green Star SA rating tool to guide the design or construction process during which a documentation-based submission must be submitted as proof of the achievement. A "Design" certification can be submitted for and awarded at the end of the design phase of the project. At the end of construction, a project can submit for and be awarded "As Built" certification, certifying that all green building strategies were in fact incorporated into the final building. The Certified Rating can be achieved prior to practical completion, but must be achieved no later than 24 months after practical completion. As Built submissions must be submitted after practical completion, and the Certified Rating must be achieved no later than 24 months after practical completion.

Pearl Rating System for Estidama -Estidama, which means 'sustainability' in Arabic, is intended to be the initiative which will transform Abu Dhabi into a model of sustainable urbanization. Its aim is to create more sustainable communities, cities, and global enterprises and to balance the four pillars of Estidama: environmental, economic, cultural, and social. The Pearl Rating System for Estidama aims to address the sustainability of a given development throughout its life cycle from design through construction to operation. Accordingly, three rating stages have been established: Design, Construction, and Operational.

Within each section there are both mandatory and optional credits and credit points are awarded for each optional credit achieved. To achieve a 1 Pearl rating, all the mandatory credit requirements must be met. To achieve a higher Pearl rating, all the mandatory credit requirements must be met along with a minimum number of credit points.

Emerging Issues

New green technologies and materials are always being developed and entering into the marketplace to complement current practices in creating greener environments. Many of these technologies and materials have not been tested long enough in the built environment in order to fully verify their performance. Seek extensive testing and performance data before incorporating new technologies and materials into a project. Also, test beyond the product's green performance for safety, durability, and fire resistance standards from UL and ETL.

New and more stringent requirements continue to be introduced to the standards and certifications process. Because of the toxicity of many pesticides and fire retardants, and additional means of exposure, testing and certifying beyond product emissions to product content is a trend that will continue to increase.

There continues to be a shift toward the scientific evaluation of actual performance through Life Cycle Assessments (LCA). While LCAs are not yet a consistent requirement of green building rating systems and codes, there is a trend toward requiring LCAs and improving the methods for conducting them. Greater emphasis is also being placed on achieving resilience in buildings, which is now being addressed in the green building rating systems.

Achieving a sustainable, lasting outcome can be achieved in a variety of ways for any given project. The rating systems offer options that can help a designer and client tailor the project outcome based on a wide range of goals and approaches to addressing the sustainability issues and other green building requirements.

Relevant Codes and Standards

Federal Mandates, Acts, and Executive Orders

International Code Council

International Green Construction Code (IgCC). The IgCC is intended to be used as a jurisdictional and municipal building code for new construction and major renovations. The IgCC is a comprehensive code document; it sets standards for energy conservation, water efficiency, and commissioning, and also includes enforcement procedures and guidelines for existing building renovations.

ICC 700 National Green Building Standard. The standard defines green building for single-family and multi-family homes, residential remodeling, and site development projects while allowing enough flexibility to incorporate regionally appropriate best green practices.

ASHRAE Standards

ANSI/ASHRAE/USGBC/IES Standard 189.1-2017, Standard for the Design of High-Performance Green Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings this standard provides minimum requirements for site, design, construction and operations in mandatory, code-enforceable language. A collaborative effort by ASHRAE, IES and USGBC, this standard is comprehensive and includes chapters for site, water, energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and materials. ASHRAE 189.1 can be used as a jurisdictional compliance path for the IgCC.

ASHRAE Standard 55, Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy

ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2019, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality

ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2019, Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings

Water-related Legislation and Codes

Material-related Legislation

Municipal Standards

Many cities, states, and U.S. Territories have also implemented green standards for public buildings. Every city's, state's, and U.S. Territory's energy goals and requirements are listed, highlighting LEED, Green Globes, and carbon emission reduction goals. New York City and California are two examples of governments that have implemented green standards for public buildings.

California

California has implemented green building standards for all major renovations and new construction of public buildings. Executive Order S-3-05 calls to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80% below 1990 levels by 2050. To accomplish this goal, Executive Order S-20-04 requires all state buildings to reduce energy usage by 20% and achieve a minimum of a Silver LEED rating.

New York City

New York City's Local Law 86 requires LEED certification for public buildings with construction costs exceeding $2 million. The NYC Greener, Greater Buildings Plan is another example of NYC's commitment to sustainability. It requires a combination of benchmarking, energy audits, retro-commissioning, lighting upgrades and sub-metering for the city's largest buildings.

Additional Resources

Organizations

Publications

"A comparative study of building energy performance assessment between LEED, BREEAM, and Green Star Schemes" by Roderick, Y et al. Integrated Environmental Solutions Limited, Kelvin Campus, West of Scotland Science Park, Glasgow, G20 0SP, U.K.

Guide to Green Building Rating Systems: Understanding LEED, Green Globes, Energy Star, the National Green Building Standard, and More by Reeder, L. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2010.

Sustainable Building Rating Systems Summary by K.M. Fowler and E.M. Rauch. Completed by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, July 2006.

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Green Building Standards and Certification Systems

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Buildings have extensive direct and indirect impacts on the environment. During their construction, occupancy, renovation, repurposing, and demolition, buildings use energy, water, and raw materials, generate waste, and emit potentially harmful atmospheric emissions. These facts prompted the creation of green building standards, certifications, and rating systems aimed at mitigating the impact of buildings on the natural environment through sustainable design.

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Vierra, S. (2020). Green Building Standards and Certification Systems  . WBDG. https://www.wbdg.org/resources/green-building-standards-and-certification-systems

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Ashton, D. (2024, February 4). Understanding green building certifications: why should you get one? University College of Estate Management.

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Ashton, D. (2024, February 4). Understanding green building certifications: why should you get one? University College of Estate Management. https://www.ucem.ac.uk/whats-happening/articles/green-building-certification/

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Posted on: 8 January, 2024
More and more developers, businesses and homeowners are pursuing sustainability certification for their buildings, but is it actually worth it?
The buildings our sector creates are at the centre of the global push for sustainability. Whether it's through embodied emissions generated in the construction lifecycle or operational emissions once a development is in use, the built environment is having a significant impact on the climate crisis.

However, demand for new infrastructure is continuing to rise, in line with an expanding population. Three-quarters of the infrastructure that will exist in 2050 has yet to be built, meaning we need to work hard to adopt sustainable alternatives and approaches to the construction process if we want to achieve net zero in our sector.

Progress is being made. Innovations in the sector like lean construction, prefabrication and retrofitting are helping to address the environmental impacts of the construction industry, but more needs to be done.

In an effort to promote sustainable building practices and improve our sector's alignment to the Sustainable Development Goals set out by the United Nations, various countries across the world have established green building certifications. But what exactly are they? What different certifications are available? And are they even worth pursuing?

What is a green building certification?

Green building certifications are used to review and assess a project or development's environmental and sustainability performance. They usually come in the form of rating systems or tools.

These certifications are not a new concept, having first been established in the 1980s, but their popularity has grown amid the emergence of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and environmental, social and governance (ESG) policies and initiatives.
Learn more: A guide to ESG: what is it and why does it matter?
Why get a green building certification?

There are a number of benefits for organisations and site owners that receive green certification, including:

1. Reduction in environmental impact

As previously discussed, the built environment - from construction to operation - is a significant contributor to global emissions. With increasing demands and tighter legislation being placed on construction firms to become more sustainable, green-certified projects will ultimately have less impact on the environment. From an operational perspective, this will help businesses in their pursuit of ESG goals and boost the perception of a brand/company among potential customers.

2. Visibility for brands engaging in sustainability

Sustainability is a commercial movement as much as it is an environmental one. Today's consumers and employees care about sustainability - if you're a business, you can't afford to not be seen taking action, especially when competitors in the marketplace may already be ahead of you.

Pursuing green certification for a construction project or existing structure is an effective way to demonstrate an organisation's commitment to sustainability, whether that's to stakeholders, customers, employees, or potential occupants.

Learn more: Making a business case for sustainability: why now is the time to act

3. Increase in property value, rent prices and lease rates

Buildings with green certifications are in high demand. According to research by JLL, developments with Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) certification had a 20.6% higher capital value on average than their counterparts. This in turn can help property owners charge higher lease rates and, when it comes to making a sale, command higher prices.

Learn more: Green leases, defined: how can they improve sustainability in real estate?

Incorporating sustainability through practices like biophilic design can also have health and well-being impacts for tenants and property users, further increasing the value of developments with green certifications.

4. Operation and maintenance cost savings

Many green building certifications look at a project's operational emissions as well as its embodied carbon footprint, meaning it will be assessed for things like energy consumption and water usage. For business owners, this means that green-certified projects will be cheaper to both run and maintain, as in order to attain certification, they'll need to be more efficient.

Receiving a green building certification will, of course, likely require more costs upfront as the eco-friendly fittings and optimisations needed are often more expensive. However, in the long term, there's a good chance building owners and businesses that make this investment will see returns.

5. Tax incentives

Along with potential cost and energy savings through improved and optimised efficiency, construction firms, business owners and homeowners could receive tax incentives to help them with the initial higher costs of green construction.

In the US, there are several tax incentives offered by federal, state and local governments, such as Section 45L and Section 179D. Meanwhile, pushback from Italy against the EU Green Buildings Pact has prompted conversations in Europe around the scaling up of green subsidies to help ease the costs of the transition to green building.

What are some examples of green building certification systems?

There are a wide range of green building standards available across the globe, with many levels of certification that complement one another in recognising the sustainable qualities of new or existing developments. Below are some of the most prominent and widely adopted:

1. BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method)

BREEAM is a globally recognised green certification that was established in 1990 and is suitable for both new developments and refurbishments. It rewards developments with a star rating and assesses the sustainability and environmental performance of infrastructure against ten different performance categories, each with their own benchmarks and targets:

2. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)

Developed by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED is similar to BREEAM and is applicable to multiple building types, including new developments and retrofits. LEED-certified buildings have been assessed against specific criteria, such as energy and water efficiency and emission reduction. It's the most widely used green building rating system in the world.

3. Energy Star

The Energy Star program is run by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and designed to complement other certifications, rather than replace them. The focus of Energy Star, as the name suggests, is on energy efficiency rather than whether a development is 'green', with all construction projects compared against the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code. Structures with Energy Star certification have been independently verified to perform 75% better than similar developments in the US, use 35% less energy, and produce 35% less greenhouse gas emissions.

4. Green Globes

The Green Globes certification is a sustainable building certification administered by the Green Building Initiative (GBI). This rating and certification system covers new building projects as well as refurbishments and existing structures across environmental sustainability, health and wellness and resilience. While it has been accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), it's available worldwide.

5. National Green Building Standard

The National Green Building Standard (NGBS) is a sustainable building rating and certification system specifically designed for homes and apartments. It's another environmental standard that has been approved by ANSI and acts as a guideline for sustainable construction and renovation by assessing:

Energy, water and resource efficiency

Operation and maintenance

Indoor environmental quality (e.g. air flow)

Lot development

6. Living Building Challenge

The Living Building Challenge requires a building to have been operational for at least a year before it can be certified. With an emphasis on people and whether a building has a positive impact on the environment, this certification has seven performance areas against which developments are assessed:

7. Green Star

Green Star is an Australian Green Building Rating System managed by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA). To achieve the Green Star standard, projects are assessed against the ISO 9001:2015 and receive third-party assessment. As with BREEAM, the performance of buildings results in a 1-6 star rating as part of certification.

8. Passive House Certification

Also referred to as the Passivehaus Standard, this certification focuses on preparing new and existing buildings for the net zero future. Though similar assessment themes to the other certifications listed, achieving this standard requires buildings to have very high levels of insulation, insulated windows, airtight fabric and concrete free of thermal bridging, among other energy-efficient optimisations.

9. WELL Being Standard

The WELL Being standard is an internationally recognised system that focuses on the relationship sustainable buildings have with health and wellbeing. It assesses the impact of buildings against 10 factors:

10. Fitwel Standard

Another certification that emphasises health and wellbeing, Fitwel is most suitable for retail, multifamily residential and commercial buildings. This standard seeks to improve occupier engagement and the user experience of buildings, and, as with BREEAM and Green Star, includes a star rating system.

Like other certifications on this list, Fitwel covers categories such as water supply, indoor environment and location, but also includes human-centric features such as vending capabilities, cafeterias and emergency preparedness.

Are green building certificates worth the effort?

While there are numerous benefits of attaining accreditation, these programs aren't without their potential drawbacks, including:

Significant additional costs for certification fees, third-party inspection, document submission and other expenses

More costly materials and design features that may be difficult to mitigate depending on the type of project

Not all certifications factor in pre-operational emissions before a project is built, meaning they don't truly reflect its sustainability credentials and performance

Learn more: It's not easy, being green - are green building certifications just greenwash?

Whether a green building certificate is suitable for a business, property or homeowner ultimately depends upon the type of property and their long-term vision. Pursuing green certification can increase the value of a project, reduce maintenance costs and support brand reputation, but its impact in these areas could be limited by the type of certification selected.

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Understanding green building certifications: why should you get one?

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More and more developers, businesses and homeowners are pursuing sustainability certification for their buildings, but is it worth it?

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Algburi, S. M., Faieza, A. A., & Baharudin, B. T. H. T. (2016). Review of green building index in Malaysia; existing work and challenges. International Journal of Applied Engineering Research, 11(5), 3160-3167.

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Adlina (2023, August 30). Memahami Pensijilan Bangunan Hijau: Melangkah ke Arah Pembinaan Mampan | CIDB HQ. CIDB HQ.

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Green building certification has emerged as a beacon of sustainability in the construction sector. In this article, HEIGHTS will delve into the fundamentals of green building standards, shedding light on their significance, certification procedures, and the far-reaching benefits of constructing environmentally friendly structures.

Green building standards are holistic frameworks that emphasise resource efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced occupant well-being. These standards guide the construction process, encouraging practices that minimise energy consumption, optimise water usage, and promote the use of eco-friendly materials.

The certification process involves rigorous evaluation against these standards, with third-party verification ensuring compliance.
Malaysia boasts several green building certification systems, such as the Green Building Index (GBI) and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED).
Embracing green building practices brings a host of advantages. Energy-efficient designs lower operational costs, translating into long-term savings for building owners. Reduced water usage contributes to sustainable resource management.

Moreover, occupants of green buildings enjoy improved indoor air quality and a healthier environment. Green building certification also enhances a project's marketability and attractiveness to investors.

With sustainability gaining prominence, businesses that invest in eco-friendly structures showcase their commitment to environmental stewardship, leading to positive public perception and increased demand.

As Malaysia aims to chart a sustainable course for its construction sector, understanding green building certification is pivotal. It is not merely a trend but a transformative movement aligning with global sustainability goals.
Stay tuned for the next instalment as we delve deeper into the certification procedures.
Article 2: Navigating the Green Building Certification Process
Article 3: The Advantages of Building Green: Sustainability that Pays Off

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Memahami Pensijilan Bangunan Hijau: Melangkah ke Arah Pembinaan Mampan | CIDB HQ

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Green building certification has emerged as a beacon of sustainability in the construction sector. In this article, HEIGHTS will delve into the fundamentals of green building standards, shedding light on their significance, certification procedures, and the far-reaching benefits of constructing environmentally friendly structures.

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Pereira, V., Santos, J., Leite, F., & Patrícia Escórcio. (2021). Using BIM to improve building energy efficiency – A scientometric and systematic review

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Fung, C. (2016, December 28). Green Building Certification Across Asia.

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Green buildings are on the rise in Asia. Most countries have at least one domestic green building rating scheme and some, like Japan, even have two. Registrations and certifications continue to grow but green projects are still a far cry from forming a majority in the construction industry. Let us have a look at the state of green building certifications across the region.

The US Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy Environmental Design ( LEED) rating system has been adopted across Asia, with nearly 6,000 projects registered and more than 2,000 certified across 18 countries. In addition to the LEED system however, many Asian countries have developed their own rating system.

Singapore has set itself the goal to get 80% of its building stock (excluding logistics and industrial facilities) certified with its Green Mark tool by 2030. This is backed up by a framework of legislation that requires newly developed properties to be certified, and re-certified after three years. In addition, any existing property that now undergoes a heating, ventilation and air conditioning upgrade must get Green Mark certified. The Green Mark applies to various categories of new and existing buildings, from offices and supermarkets to stores and data centers. In Singapore, 69% of design and construction firms plan on developing green retrofits and renovations.

China launched its Green Building Action Plan in 2013, requiring all public buildings, public residential buildings and commercial buildings with a gross floor area greater than 20,000 sqm to achieve at least one star in the China Green Building Evaluation Standard. The rating tool of China's 3-Star rating system assigns a score based on the predicted performance of the building. A summary table of credit weighting by category is included below.

In India, where the national green building footprint exceeds 356m sqm, there are more than 850 buildings certified with the national IGBC rating tool. The government is leading by example by getting their own buildings certified. Delhi Metro stations are certified with IGBC Metro to Platinum level. Policy focus is around decarbonizing the economy, with a push to renewables.

South Korea also has its own green building certification system, the Green Standard for Energy and Environmental Design (G-SEED). These regulations require that all large buildings obtain a G-SEED certification and, over the years, certified buildings have been increasing to a rate of over 2,000 buildings annually. The total number of buildings certified with G-SEED is expected to exceed 11,000 by the end of 2016. A positive trend is that in terms of total GFA, more than 50% of new construction in 2015 was G-SEED certified.

Bangladesh 's green building market is still in the early stages. At present, the LEED system is the most active, with 19,000 sqm of certified space with the majority being in Dhaka. The Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC) is currently being upgraded by the Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology and is in its final stage, which will include sections on sustainability and green design.

BEAM Plus, is a green building rating system used by the Hong Kong Green Building Council since April 2010. More than 400 projects registered under BEAM Plus and around 2m sqm of space are certified. In parallel, the LEED system is still very popular and includes around 1.2m sqm of certified space in Hong Kong.

The Japanese Green Building Council has developed a comprehensive family of green building rating tools for many markets and building types. The Comprehensive Assessment System for Built Environment Efficiency (CASBEE) rating systems are designed to analyse building performance at several stages in the building lifecycle, from pre-design to renovation. All of the rating tools use two general categories of analysis: quality assessments are taken at the building level, while load assessments look at the building's impact on the local environment or neighbourhood.

Overall, while the US designed LEED system remains the worldwide leader in green building certification, we are witnessing a proliferation of national certification standards coupled with national targets and legislation. This can only translate in a rise in demand for certified green buildings - the construction industry should consider this as a golden opportunity to "green" their business.

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GREEN BUILDING CERTIFICATION ACROSS ASIA

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Green buildings are on the rise in Asia. Most countries have at least one domestic green building rating scheme and some, like Japan, even have two.

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Shtang, G. (2022, August 17). Top 5 Benefits of Green Building.

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Galia Shtang, Head of Sustainability at Environmental Sustainable Development (ESD) Israel

What are the top benefits of Green Building? Advantages include:

Environmental advantages

Cost efficiency and economic benefits

Health benefits

Energy saving and energy efficiency

Improving air quality

What is Green Building?

What can make a building a Green Building?

Benefits of Green Building

1. Environmental

2. Cost efficiency and economic benefits

3. Health benefits

The only way to tackle this problem is through public awareness coupled with a multidisciplinary approach by scientific experts; national and international organizations must address the emergence of this threat and propose sustainable solutions.

Case study - Shaharut sustainable achievements

Inogen Alliance is a global network made up of dozens of independent local businesses and over 5,000 consultants around the world who can help make your project a success. Our Associates collaborate closely to serve multinational corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, and we share knowledge and industry experience to provide the highest quality service to our clients. If you want to learn more about how you can work with Inogen Alliance, you can explore our Associates or Contact Us. Watch for more News & Blog updates here and follow us on LinkedIn.

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Top 5 Benefits of Green Building | Inogen

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Potential benefits of green building can include environmental, cost efficiency and economics, and health benefits. Let's explore!

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Levy, B. (2023, June 5). Sustainable savings: The financial benefits of operating a green building.

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Ecology and cost-efficiency go hand in hand

One common misconception about green buildings is that they're more expensive than traditional ones. While it's true that green buildings may have a higher upfront cost, long-term savings more than make up for it. According to a report by the Smart CRE, green buildings can save between 25%-50% energy, 10%-40% in water consumption, and reduce maintenance costs by about 12%. These savings can lead to a return on investment of up to 40% over a building's lifetime. By reducing energy and water consumption, green buildings also save money on utility bills. They also require less maintenance, which reduces operational costs.

The ROI of green buildings is compelling. According to a study by the Green Building Council, green buildings can have a payback period of as little as 3-5 years, with a return on investment of up to 40% over the building's lifetime. These cost savings make green buildings attractive for building owners and facility managers looking to reduce operating costs and improve their bottom line.

What going green really means

Energy efficiency: energy-efficient design features and technologies, such as insulation, efficient lighting, smart HVAC systems, and renewable energy sources, contribute to reduced energy consumption.

Sustainable materials: the use of eco-friendly materials, recycled content, and sustainable construction practices.

Proper maintenance practices, such as regular equipment tune-ups and air filter replacements, can extend the lifespan of building systems and reduce operational costs.

Water conservation: water-saving features like low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting systems, efficient irrigation systems and water management systems like WINT.

Water management plays a key role in green buildings

Water is one of our most precious natural resources; conserving it wherever possible is essential. Green architecture can minimize water waste by incorporating strategies like water reuse and efficient plumbing fixtures. A study by Kats for the LEED program found that water-saving systems in green buildings save 39% more water than similar non-green buildings.

Additionally, water efficiency can lessen the strain on shared water supplies and allow for water recycling within the building. By conserving water, we can also reduce the energy required to supply and treat it, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions.

The destructive power of water and the ensuing operational cost

Water damage is one of the most significant threats to building performance and can result in direct and indirect costs. Direct costs include repairing and replacing damaged materials, while indirect costs can include business disruption, lost time, and increased insurance premiums. In extreme cases, water damage can render a building uninhabitable, resulting in significant financial losses. By implementing water-saving strategies and technology like WINT, building owners and facility managers can reduce the risk of water damage and the resulting operational costs.

WINT: optimizing green building performance with smart water management

IoT and AI-based technologies like WINT can help building owners and facility managers optimize operations and save money. WINT is an IoT solution that uses artificial intelligence to detect leaks and water waste, providing real-time data to help users make informed decisions. In addition, WINT can help prevent water damage by detecting leaks and notifying building operators in real-time, allowing them to take action before significant damage occurs.

WINT has proven to save over 25% in water usage for commercial buildings, helping them significantly reduce operating costs. For the Empire State Building, retrofitting WINT resulted in a cost saving of $100,000 per year, reducing carbon emissions by over 300 metric tons.

In conclusion

Green buildings offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution to reduce operating costs, improve building performance, and minimize environmental impact. By incorporating energy and water-saving strategies and technology like WINT, building owners and facility managers can future-proof their buildings and save money.

Speak to us today to learn more about green buildings and how WINT can help optimize your facilities' operations.

Related articles:

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Sustainable savings: The financial benefits of operating a green building

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Green buildings bring in higher rent and sale prices, while also costing less to operate. In this article, we explore the implications of the green premium.

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Jackson, C. (2022, June 29). The 7 Green Building Components.

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Green building has become an increasingly popular topic in recent years. More and more people are looking to build environmentally friendly homes, and businesses are starting to catch on to the sustainable trend. This blog post will discuss the seven components.

In this article, we will discuss the importance and features of seven green building components to help make your building more efficient and environmentally friendly.
1. Aluminum Weather Resistant Insulated Access Panel
Aluminum panels help regulate indoor temperature and prevent moisture and pests from entering. It is essential to use an aluminum weather-resistant insulated access panel to create a tight seal that will keep the inside of your building comfortable and dry.
2. Energy Efficient Windows
Windows are one of the most significant sources of heat loss in a home, so it is essential to choose windows that will help keep the heat inside. There are many different types of energy-efficient windows on the market, so you can find ones that fit your style and budget.
3. Green Roof
Green roofs have become more popular because they help insulate a home and reduce the amount of heat lost through the roof. They also help reduce stormwater runoff and provide additional living space for plants and animals.
4. Solar Power
Solar power is a renewable energy source that heats and cools a home and provides electricity. Solar power is becoming increasingly affordable, and it is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
5. Water Conservation
Several ways to help conserve water in your home include installing reduced showerheads and toilets, collecting rainwater in barrels, and xeriscaping your landscaping. Water conservation is important because it helps reduce the amount of water in a home, saving money on your water bill.
6. Recycling
Recycling is an excellent way to minimize the amount of waste generated in the home. It is also a great way to reuse materials. There are many different recycling programs, so you can find one that works for your family.
7. Landscaping
Landscaping can help reduce the amount of heat absorbed by a home, and it can also allow cooling of the air around a house. Trees and shrubs can provide shade and windbreaks, and they can also help filter pollutants.
Why do Green Building Components Matter?
Green building components refer to the various elements that make a structure environmentally friendly. It includes everything from the materials used in construction to how it operates. Utilizing green building components can have some benefits, both for the environment and for the people who occupy the space.

The most vital benefit of green buildings is that they help reduce pollution. Facilities are responsible for a significant portion of air pollution, and by using materials and designs that limit emissions, green buildings can make a big difference.

Green buildings also tend to be more energy-efficient than traditional structures, using less electricity and generating fewer greenhouse gases. It can have a significant impact on climate change.

In addition to helping the environment, green buildings also offer many benefits for the people who occupy them. These spaces are more comfortable and healthier, with improved air quality and natural light. It helps save energy costs too.

Final Thoughts
When we think about the environment, it's essential to consider everything from what you eat at home or how often your clothes dry. We have stressed that there are no short-term solutions for environmental problems like climate change because they are effects by humans burning fossil fuels which release carbon dioxide into our atmosphere.

One way people can reduce their impact on Earth? Use sustainable building materials! If you want to know more about it or are planning to construct an environment-friendly building, incorporate these elements into your commercial building!

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Green building has become an increasingly popular topic in recent years. More and more people are looking to build environmentally friendly homes, and businesses are starting to catch on to the sustainable trend. This blog post will discuss the seven components.

# data[].attributes.body
Galia Shtang. (2022 February 17).

Top 5 Benefits of Green Building.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Galia Shtang, Head of Sustainability at Environmental Sustainable Development (ESD) Israel

What are the top benefits of Green Building? Advantages include:

Environmental advantages

Cost efficiency and economic benefits

Health benefits

Energy saving and energy efficiency

Improving air quality

What is Green Building?

What can make a building a Green Building?

Benefits of Green Building

1. Environmental

2. Cost efficiency and economic benefits

3. Health benefits

The only way to tackle this problem is through public awareness coupled with a multidisciplinary approach by scientific experts; national and international organizations must address the emergence of this threat and propose sustainable solutions.

Case study - Shaharut sustainable achievements

Inogen Alliance is a global network made up of dozens of independent local businesses and over 5,000 consultants around the world who can help make your project a success. Our Associates collaborate closely to serve multinational corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, and we share knowledge and industry experience to provide the highest quality service to our clients. If you want to learn more about how you can work with Inogen Alliance, you can explore our Associates or Contact Us. Watch for more News & Blog updates here and follow us on LinkedIn.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Top 5 Benefits of Green Building | Inogen

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Potential benefits of green building can include environmental, cost efficiency and economics, and health benefits. Let's explore!

# data[].attributes.body
Gendre, I. (2023, July 26). 10 Things to Know About Green Building.

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Green building is a growing field with opportunities for innovation. It can benefit businesses by offering cost savings, higher ROI, and environmental performance.

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Locke, J. (2021, June 17). 6 Traits of a Sustainable City (With Examples).

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A sustainable city concept incorporates eco-friendly practices, green spaces and supporting technology into the urban environment to reduce air pollution and CO2 emissions, enhance air quality, and protect natural resources. These practices lead to a healthier environment for city residents and a lower carbon footprint for the city. Sustainable cities are becoming essential in the quest to reverse global climate change.

Cities today must retrofit their infrastructure - for example, to ensure that the city can be easily navigated on foot, by bicycle or on eco-friendly public transit systems. And the energy that powers and supports city systems - from the power grid to water management to traffic and transit can be upgraded to support lower emissions and better air quality. In this article, we look at goals for sustainable cities and society, and how urban areas across the globe can adopt green practices today and tomorrow.

What Is a Sustainable City?

A sustainable city is an urban center engineered to improve its environmental impact through urban planning and management. For an eco city definition, picture cities with parks and green spaces, solar-powered buildings, rooftop gardens and more pedestrians and cyclists than cars. This is not a futuristic dream. Smart cities are actively moving toward greener urban ecosystems and better environmental stewardship.

Green technology is a key factor that is helping to foster more sustainable urban development. It comprises all aspects of city planning, including transportation, infrastructure, telecommunications and energy.

Green tech also supports green living practices, including recycling and use of energy and renewable resources in homes and offices. Sensors, gateways, embedded radios and cellular routers are at the heart of many sustainable city infrastructure and green building systems. See our video introducing the green tech landscape.

6 Characteristics and Key Features of a Sustainable City

What are cities doing to become more sustainable? Smart cities are creating sustainable places with clean technology, parks and pathways, and urban sustainability principles. See our list of key eco city characteristics to learn how to achieve sustainable cities and communities.

Cities can do a number of things to support sustainable practices:

Make it easy to get around without a car

Add EV charging stations

Provide access to public resources and green spaces

Improve water conservation and wastewater management

Support urban farming

Implement green architecture

1. Make It Easy to Get Around Without a Car

Automobiles account for 75% of CO pollution in the U.S. Cities striving for sustainability can create paths, bike bridges and sidewalks, and encourage citizens to walk, ride, or commute via metro trains or buses. These are some of the critical components of sustainable urban development because of their many benefits:

In Copenhagen, bicycles outnumber cars by over 5:1, and nearly half the population commutes by bike. City management has achieved this bike culture by building cycle superhighways with ample amenities along the way, including traffic lights, air pumps, and safer intersections.

2. Add EV Charging Stations

Whereas conventional fuel-driven vehicles generate an average of 4.6 metric tons per year, hybrids can cut that in half, and electric vehicles produce zero. Cities aiming for carbon neutrality must include EV charging stations in their sustainable city planning.

Urban areas can incentivize the construction of these stations, and planners can team up with developers to map out appropriate locations for charging stations. Key benefits include:

San Francisco, the fourth most populous city of California, has mandated that garages and parking lots install EV charging stations for over 10% of their spaces. The city aims to achieve 100% emission-free ground transportation within 20 years.

3. Provide Access to Public Resources and Green Spaces

Access to nature and walking/biking paths are key elements of a sustainable city. Resources like parks, nature preserves and recreational areas get people out of cars. And studies have shown that green spaces help improve mental health.

Infrastructure designs and urban landscaping can go a long way toward enhancing public resources and making cities more vibrant. Some of the benefits of this feature include:

New York is one of the most advanced cities for sustainability. The Big Apple is implementing multiple sustainability programs, from a Carbon Challenge which aims for 50% emissions reduction by 2025 to a Zero Waste project, city bike rentals and urban parks built on landfill sites.

4. Improve Water Conservation and Waste Management

Cities can improve water conservation and waste management through sustainable urban planning. With water shortages increasing across the globe, technology to monitor water systems and provide leak detection is key, along with incentives for citizens and businesses to save water.

Likewise, waste disposal processes can shift toward a circular economy model, and sustainable city waste management. Programs to minimize waste by recycling, composting, and repurposing materials are some proven ways cities can be more sustainable with waste management.

The benefits are many:

For example, Dubai is an entirely self-sustainable city via renewable energy. The city is powered by clean energy produced by recycling water and waste, has 60% green space irrigated with gray wastewater, and has banned single-use plastic bags.

5. Support Urban Farming

Food is second to energy as the most in-demand city resource. Urban farming enhances food production, reduces food insecurity and mitigates the environmental effects of food transportation. And growing food locally reduces the distance from farm to consumer. Urban farming practices include vertical gardens, rooftop farming, community gardens, and encouraging schools and restaurants to grow food.

There are several great benefits:

Several cities have taken leadership roles in developing urban farming programs, according to Agritecture. For example, Victoria B.C. has a program to distribute seedlings to communities. Atlanta, Georgia has a program to educate school children in urban farming. And New York City now has over 550 community gardens.

6. Implement Green Architecture

When we talk about sustainable development and cities, green architecture is a key component. Green architects are discovering innovative ways to reduce resource use and lower greenhouse gas emissions - from using natural building materials and solar panels, to improving ventilation and insulation, planting more shade trees and installing smart HVAC systems. Green buildings can meet certain requirements to get LEED-certified, which is increasingly desirable for tenants.

Benefits include:

Paris, France is a leader in green building tech, implementing practices such as using high-density materials that capture and release solar heat to aid in heating and cooling.

Most Sustainable Cities in the World

Governments and local authorities globally are seeking ways to become more sustainable, and today there is a race to be the most sustainable city in the world. Our list summarizes an article covering the top 10 most eco friendly cities devoted to environmental practices.

Copenhagen, Denmark: With its continuous investment in green tech and network of bicycle lanes, Copenhagen is one of the most sustainable cities. The city aims to be the first carbon-neutral city by 2025.

Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam - another on the list of most eco-friendly cities - promotes electric vehicles with citywide EV charging stations. Residents are encouraged to install rooftop solar panels and grow their own food or purchase locally, which contributes to the local economy.

Stockholm, Sweden: Stockholm is a well-planned sustainable city with a goal to eliminate the use of fossil fuels within 20 years.

Berlin, Germany: Berlin is one of the best urban sustainability examples, with over 400 EV charging stations, and has been investing in green spaces since World War I.

Portland, Oregon: Portland has adopted a sustainability culture, and today ¼ of its citizens commute by bike or public transport. Rideshare systems and bike paths also support green commute methods.

San Francisco, California: San Francisco is one of the most sustainable cities in the US, with a zero waste program designed to divert 100% of waste from landfills by 2020. The city also banned products like plastic bags and water bottles.

Cape Town, South Africa: Cape Town began installing wind farms to produce sustainable energy in 2008. The city's residents also use solar panels and grow urban gardens for food production.

Helsinki, Finland: If you are an eco-traveler, Helsinki is worth visiting. A large percentage of the city's hotel rooms have been certified as eco-friendly. The city is also developing sustainable living communities.

Vancouver, Canada: Vancouver produces the lowest amount of greenhouse gases in North America. The city's environmental focus has created a local green economy boom for the residents, supporting more green jobs and locally grown food.

Reykjavik, Iceland: Reykjavik is making great strides towards eradicating generation of greenhouse emissions by inspiring people to walk, cycle, and use public transport. The city also encourages use of electric vehicles and plans to triple the number of hydrogen buses by 2030.

This is an ever-changing story! For example, a new article in Smart Cities World lists Canberra, Australia as the most sustainable city in the world.

Why We Need Green Cities: Considering the Benefits

The importance of sustainable cities and communities is becoming increasingly critical in the quest to reverse environmental damage and improve the livability of cities. Urban green ecosystems can make an enormous difference for the environment. Here are some of the key benefits of a green city:

Environmental stewardship - each of us doing our part, using sustainable systems

Mitigating the impact of global warming

Better air quality, leading to improvements in residents' health and wellness

Improved water management and reduction of avoidable water loss

More efficient use of the electric grid for reduced carbon emissions and lower costs

Better use of solar energy and shade trees to reduce the use of resources

Build a Sustainable Future with Green Tech from Digi

The development of sustainable cities is a lofty goal for authorities and city planners but paramount for combatting climate change. A sustainable infrastructure supports a reliable water supply, and mitigates the effects of flooding, storms and heat waves.

Green technology is the key to a sustainable future. To adopt greener practices and build healthier cities, we need smart connectivity, technology-driven efficiency, and data insights to make smarter, greener decisions. That's where we come in. At Digi, we are proud to offer IoT solutions to support green technology applications today so we can all enjoy a better tomorrow.

Next Steps

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6 Traits of a Sustainable City (With Examples)

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A sustainable city incorporates eco-friendly practices, green spaces and supporting technology into the urban environment to reduce air pollution and CO2 emissions, enhance air quality, and protect natural resources.

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Admin. (2020, March 1). Green Buildings And Its Benefits in Smart Cities.

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Green Buildings And Its Benefits & Methods in Smart Cities

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There is no smart city without sustainability and there is no sustainability without green buildings. So, they are one concept that make a successful city!

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Jackson, C. (2022, February 9). How is Green Building Sustainable?

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Due to the harmful effects of climate change in recent years, the United Nations has established the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. It is the governing institution when (...)

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Energy Watch. (2022, August 22).

Malaysia’s Green Building Index Paves the Way to Sustainable Development.

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Energy Watch: Global & Regional Energy Insights, Thought leadership, & Conversations

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Buildings are responsible for almost 50% of annual global CO2 emissions. With urban areas expected to hold almost 70% of the human population by 2050, we can expect the built environment to expand exponentially over the coming years, creating a huge liability on the road to net zero emissions.

To keep emissions in check while enabling large scale urbanisation, green buildings have emerged as the solution that would not only reduce the negative impacts of development, but also provide positive impacts on the surrounding environment and its residents. Designed to reduce the overall impact on human health and the environment throughout its lifecycle, green buildings prioritise the efficient use of water, construction materials, and energy - during development and throughout its operational lifetime.

To quantify a building's socio-environmental impact, green ratings systems have been developed to identify and manage resource consumption of buildings. One such system, the Green Building Index (GBI), is Malaysia's own industry-recognised green rating system for buildings, designed to promote sustainable development and encourage widescale responsibility for creating a green future for Malaysia.
What is the Green Building Index?
Buildings that adopt green construction methods and eco-friendly designs provide a host of benefits both to the environment as well as its residents. Some of these benefits include reduced water and energy wastage, reduced burden on natural resources and improved air and water quality. Although the upfront costs of a green building may be higher than conventional options, the return on value from conserving energy and using the surrounding environment to its benefit reduces energy and maintenance costs in the long run, and even improves the quality of life for users and residents.

Malaysia's GBI rating tool was developed specifically for the country's tropical climate, taking into account its cultural and social needs as well as its environmental and developmental context. Helmed by the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC), the process to receive the GBI certification starts with an assessment of the building by an appointed certifier. This certifier scores and provides a rating for the building based on six main criteria: energy efficiency, indoor environment quality, material resources, sustainable site planning and management, water efficiency, and innovation.

Once assessment is complete, a provisional certification is issued by MGTC, with a final certification provided when the completed building is verified according to the design provided. Depending on scores achieved, buildings will be awarded either a Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum rating.
Building a Green Future for Malaysia
For a developing country like Malaysia, large scale developments are inevitable, especially considering that up to 87% of its population will reside in urban areas by 2050. As the building sector continues to be one of the largest users of energy and emitters of CO2, it is crucial that the energy and resource usage of buildings are optimised. By promoting and rewarding the efficient use of natural resources, green building rating systems like the GBI are playing a significant role in the road to net zero by 2050.

While green building developments and certifications are entirely voluntary at this point, Malaysia already boasts dozens of green projects that span from individual buildings to factories and even townships. One such project, the University of Technology Sarawak, received a Platinum rating for their campus design that incorporates green elements in its design and planning to create a beautiful, eco-friendly campus that even went viral on social media for its stunning architecture. Other similar projects with a GBI rating include Nucleus Tower, Sunway City Iskandar Putri, IKEA Distribution Centre Malaysia, Tropicana Gardens Mall and The Energy Commission Diamond Building in Putrajaya.

The building sector continues to be one of the largest users of energy and emitters of CO2, it is crucial that the energy and resource usage of buildings are optimised

Inspired by green developments, Malaysia is seeing an increasing number of partnerships between property developer and utility companies. Most recently, national utility Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) has formed a partnership with property developer SP Setia to provide smart energy and renewable energy solutions for SP Setia's future property developments. This partnership, beside optimising costs of developments, will also provide sustainable energy solutions for future property owners and significant savings in energy consumption, proving how collaboration has the potential to bridge knowledge and resource gaps.

Another partnership would be Sime Darby and GSPARX on the development of Ilham Residence in the City of Elmina, Shah Alam where homes are equipped with solar panels, smart green meters and home energy management systems. This pioneering partnership between a property developer and solar player will allow its residents to manage their electricity usage while exporting excess energy under Net Metering Scheme (NEM) back to TNB.
Sustainable Development Around the World
Across the world, several different green building rating systems have been developed to encourage sustainable development practices. These include the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method ( BREEAM), Green Globes, the Green Mark Scheme, and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design ( LEED). These systems primarily aim to raise awareness on the benefits of a sustainable approach to building design, offering a framework to integrate sustainable solutions in an effective manner, and providing market recognition for their designs.

At the same time, green certifications in certain locations can help developers and owners qualify for tax incentives, utility rebates and other rewards. In Ohio, U.S.A, one city offered an automatic 100% real property tax exemption for properties that earned a minimum LEED certification, and other places recognise green certifications for tax credits qualification. In Singapore, incentive schemes provided by the government's Building and Construction Authority offer up to 2% additional gross floor area (GFA) for buildings that attain Platinum or Gold Green Mark ratings. In the UK, which has pledged to reduce its greenhouse-gas emissions to net zero by 2050, many publicly funded and procured buildings are required to be assessed and reach a minimum BREEAM rating.

Even without these incentives, sustainable buildings have proven to be more commercially successful with one study reporting that BREEAM-certified buildings in London achieved a 21% premium on transaction prices and an 18% premium on rent. On top of this, certified buildings often have a reduction in energy, water, and material usage, improve indoor environmental quality and reduce the potential environmental impact if the building. Green buildings that produce their own renewable energy could also potentially offset operational costs through initiatives such as Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), that allow companies to purchase excess renewable power from prosumers. Altogether, these ratings systems have help support green development practices that have produced incredible feats of sustainable architecture such as:

Bosco Verticale (Italy): Meaning "Vertical Forest" in Italian, these twin residential towers have over 20,000 trees and plants on the buildings' exterior and are equipped with solar panels and water filtration systems to water its plants. Certified LEED Gold.

Vancouver Convention Centre (USA): An award-winning green convention center with sustainability features including a rooftop garden with over 400,000 indigenous plants and four beehives. The world's first double LEED Platinum certified convention center.

Shanghai Tower (China): A skyscraper with 200 wind turbines at the top that generate 10% of the tower's energy needs, alongside 40 other energy-saving measure that, together, reduce the building's yearly carbon emissions by approximately 34,000 metric tonnes. Certified LEED Platinum and China Green Building Three-Star rating certification.

Eastgate Centre (Zimbabwe): A shopping center and office building without conventional air conditioning or heating systems but instead combined architecture with design techniques used by termites to keep the building at a constant temperature.

Building for the Future
At a global level, the building sector has the potential of making over 50% energy savings by 2050, preventing a significant chunk of emissions from being released into the atmosphere. While there is already progress seen in the green building sector, high initial cost, insufficient green expertise, and lack of interest among stakeholders may hinder the widespread adoption of green development practices. However, the lack of awareness and expertise can be realised through collaborations such as the TNB-SP Setia and Sime Darby-GSPARX partnerships which serves as proof that the resources and knowledge for green development are available to those who are willing to collaborate.

With the encouraging interest in sustainable development, implementing legislation that mandates a level of preservation and restoration of the environment can kickstart a green building revolution that could future-proof Malaysia's urban development. In the end, the crucial role of green buildings and sustainable development in race to net zero cannot be ignored, and stakeholders need to work together to make green living a reality.

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Malaysia's Green Building Index Paves the Way to Sustainable Development - Energy Watch: Global & Regional Energy Insights, Thought leadership, & Conversations

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Buildings are responsible for almost 50% of annual global CO2 emissions. With urban areas expected to hold almost 70% of the human population by 2050, we can

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In my point of view, green building certifications significantly affect sustainable projects, shaping design and construction practices in several ways. The certificates act as standards and reference points for sustainable design, offering a framework for architects and project teams to adhere to. For example, Architects can design buildings that prioritise environmental responsibility, energy efficiency, occupant well-being, and long-term sustainability by integrating the criteria and principles of these certifications into their projects.

It also used to promoting best practice. Green Building Certifications for example GBI and MYCREST provide an extensive list of established best practices that effectively decrease environmental impact. This involves utilising renewable energy sources, developing effective water management systems, enhancing indoor air quality, and employing sustainable materials. Builders can achieve more sustainable construction and operation of buildings by adhering to these standards and guilded them to consistently aim for excellence in sustainable building practice.

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Green building certification frameworks are carefully crafted to align with local, national, and international environmental regulations, ensuring that certified buildings meet or surpass relevant legal standards. These frameworks encompass a comprehensive set of criteria addressing various sustainability aspects, such as energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, indoor air quality, and the use of sustainable materials. By adhering to these standards, building projects not only achieve certification but also comply with essential regulations like building codes, energy performance standards, and environmental protection laws. This alignment simplifies the process for developers and building owners, as the certification process inherently ensures regulatory compliance. This measure helps to ensure that the green building practices can be standardized.

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To begin with, green building certifications like the Green Building Index (GBI) and the Malaysian Carbon Reduction and Environmental Sustainability Tool (MyCREST) play a crucial role in guiding and standardizing sustainable building practices.

Both GBI and MyCREST offer detailed criteria and benchmarks for various aspects of sustainability, including energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor environmental quality, and materials use. This provides a clear framework for architects, builders, and developers to follow.

They provide guidelines and recommendations that encourage the adoption of best practices in sustainable building. For instance, they might suggest the use of renewable energy sources, advanced insulation materials, or water-saving fixtures

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Green Building Index (GBI) is an international green building rating tool. It is what differentiate green buildings from other traditional building. It was developed by Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia (PAM) and the Association of Consulting Engineers Malaysia (ACEM) to raise awareness among developers, architects, engineers, planners, designers, contractors, and the public about environmental issues and responsibility to future generations.

The GBI rating tool provides an opportunity for developers and building owners to design and construct green, sustainable buildings that can provide energy savings, water savings, a healthier indoor environment, better connectivity to public transport, and the adoption of recycling and greenery for their projects.

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Certifications for green buildings, such the Green Building Index (GBI) and the Malaysia Carbon Reduction and Environmental Sustainability Tool (MyCREST), are essential for ensuring that buildings adhere to national and international sustainability regulations and standards.

These certifications help the government strive for sustainable development in Malaysia since they comply with national policies that aim to reduce carbon emissions and promote environmental sustainability. Furthermore, GBI and MyCREST are compatible with other international sustainability standards, such as BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).

This alignment offers a strong framework that guarantees buildings follow globally acknowledged best practices in sustainable building in addition to local regulatory requirements. In addition to supporting more general environmental aims, this dual compliance helps certified buildings become more marketable and competitive worldwide.

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In my opinion, green building certification provides a comprehensive framework. These certification tools offer a comprehensive framework for assessing the overall environmental performance of buildings across various aspects such as energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor environmental quality, and sustainable site development. This framework helps guide developers and designers towards incorporating sustainable features into their projects.

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In my opinion, Green building certifications like GBI and MyCREST play a crucial role in guiding and standardizing sustainable building practices. They provide a framework that sets clear benchmarks and criteria for various aspects of sustainability, from energy efficiency to materials usage and indoor air quality. By adhering to these standards, builders and developers can ensure that their projects contribute positively to environmental conservation and resource efficiency.

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In my opinion, building occupants play a pivotal role in ensuring the ongoing optimisation of the benefits of green buildings, particularly in the realms of continuous improvement and energy efficiency. By actively engaging in energy-saving practices such as turning off lights when not in use, unplugging electronics, and adjusting thermostat settings thoughtfully, occupants can significantly contribute to reducing energy consumption. Additionally, fostering a culture of continuous improvement involves providing feedback to building management on energy-saving opportunities, participating in energy audits, and supporting initiatives for the integration of renewable energy sources. By embracing these actions as part of their daily routines and advocating for sustainable practices within the community, occupants can help maintain and enhance the environmental and economic benefits of green buildings over time.

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"An endless number of green buildings does not make a sustainable city”.

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4) How can green building certification, such as GBI and MyCREST, help guide and standardise sustainable building practice?

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For me, building occupants should stay up-to-date with green building technologies. Staying informed about the latest green building technologies and best practices, and incorporating these into the building's operations and maintenance. This ensures that the building remains at the forefront of sustainability and continues to optimize its environmental performance. By following these steps, building occupants can ensure that the benefits of green building are fully optimized, leading to a more sustainable, cost-effective, and healthy indoor environment.

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In my opinion, the occupants must to be adaptable and flexible in order to ensure the benefits of green building remains fully optimised. It involves designing and managing the building to accommodate changing needs and usage patterns while maintaining sustainability. For example, install operable windows and adjustable shading devices to control natural light and ventilation, which allow them to adjust their environment based on weather conditions and personal comfort. Moreover, it also improved indoor air quality. In this way, the benefits of green building can be maximised.

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From my perspective, to fully optimize the benefits of green building, an effective feedback systems can be developed for the building occupants. Digital or physical surveys can be carried out to collect and gather the feedback on various aspects.  The occupants can give written feedbacks, report the usage issues and share their experience with others related to the green features through some digital platforms like applications or websites. This measure can help develop a better understanding of the green features of the green building. Analysis and review can be made based the feedback, so that the sustainability initiatives can be enhanced for a better utilization.

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Another key feature of green building is sustainable landscaping. Sustainable landscaping in green buildings involves choosing native plantings that can adapt to the local climate and soil conditions, using less water, fertilizers, and pesticides while encouraging biodiversity. Green roofs and walls, which are covered with plants, also provide natural insulation, reducing the amount of energy required for heating and cooling. These characteristics also serve to reduce the urban heat island effect by chilling the surrounding air, absorbing rain, improving air quality, and providing habitats for creatures, all of which contribute to overall environmental sustainability and resilience.

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In my opinion, most of the appliances inside the green buidlings need to be well maintained so that they are able to be utilized at its maximum capacity. However, what will happened if these appliances were poorly maintained? Surely, the electricity output gonna spike doubled than its previous use. For instance, the poorly maintained HVAC systems with a lot of dust in its vent need to work a lot harder to maintain the temperature of the room.

With that being said, we can clearly see that the appliances need to have a proper maintenance at the right timeline to ensure the maximum profitability. However, how can we know which appliances need to be maintained if the size of the buildings are as big as the size of a large mall?

With the emergence of Artificial Intelligence technology nowadays, the occupants can utilized the usage of BIM Model. These appliances can be tagged to its date of its purchase and the date of its last maintenance. The A.I can detect any unusual energy output used by every appliances in the buildings and report it to the main system. By adapting these technologies, the workers need to be well aware about the usage of the BIM software such as Revit and Navisworks. Hence, the usage of green buildings can be fully optimized!

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Through a variety of strategies and practices, building occupants may really make an impact in preserving the full benefits of green buildings. Building occupants should optimize natural light by leaving blinds and curtains open during the day and utilizing energy-efficient lightbulbs to turn off lights when not in use in order to ensure energy saving. To prevent phantom energy usage, they should unplug and turn off electronics and appliances when not in use. Power strips make this process simple. Maintaining ideal temperature settings with programmable thermostats helps cut down on heating and cooling during empty periods. Furthermore, energy efficiency may be greatly increased by making sure HVAC systems are maintained and used properly, which includes preventing misuse and keeping vents clear.

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In my opinion, education and awareness is important to be exposed to the community of a green building. Occupants should be educated about the green features of the building and how they can contribute to its sustainability. This can be achieved through workshops, training sessions, or informational materials provided by the building management itself.

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'An endless number of green buildings does not make a sustainable city'.

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3) How can building occupants ensure the benefits of green building remains fully optimised?

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When we talk about green buildings, most of the ideas will always be related to the usage of the energy. However, the construction of the green buildings itself sometimes play a vital roles in reducing the carbon emissions.

Nowadays, we can see that a lot of companies have started experimenting new substitutes materials as compared to our traditional concrete and brick construction.

The emergence of hempcrete or ferrock that are made out of recycled steel and glass has started to be used. It will not be impossible if in about 20 years in the future, our home are made out of an entirely recycled materials.

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Apart from energy efficiency, another key aspect of green buildings is water efficiency. Water conservation will become increasingly crucial in the coming decades, as rising temperatures and climate change lead to more intense and prolonged summer droughts.

As residential, commercial, industrial, and other developments expand, the demand for the limited supply of potable water, suitable for drinking, also increases. Most buildings depend on municipal sources of potable water for various needs, from flushing toilets to washing dishes and landscape irrigation. This high demand strains supplies and, under extreme conditions, may necessitate water rationing.

Additionally, large volumes of wastewater can overwhelm treatment facilities, leading to untreated overflow that contaminates rivers, lakes, and the water table with bacteria, nitrogen, toxic metals, and other pollutants. To prevent ecosystem damage, more municipal supply and treatment facilities must be built at public expense. Water pumping and treatment, both to and from the project, also consume energy, contributing to additional greenhouse gas emissions.

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Green building is significant with its ability to conserve energy. Green buildings incorporate efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to reduce energy consumption significantly, contributing to energy conservation. To simplify, one of the features in green building is capable of conserving energy, reducing energy consumption, as well as promoting sustainable practices in the construction.

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Many new green building technologies have been developed recently. A few of them use renewable energy sources to reduce the building's environmental impact. Renewable energy sources represent a cornerstone of green building for several compelling reasons. Firstly, by integrating technologies like solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems, green buildings can generate clean, renewable energy on-site, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions associated with electricity consumption. This shift towards renewables not only helps combat climate change by mitigating carbon emissions but also enhances energy security by diversifying the energy supply and reducing dependence on finite resources. Furthermore, renewable energy sources offer long-term cost savings for building owners and occupants, as they provide a stable and often free source of energy once initial installation costs are recouped Overall, renewable energy sources play a vital role in green building by not only reducing environmental impact but also fostering resilience, economic prosperity, and energy independence.

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Sustainable design strategies embrace a range of green features that prioritize environmental awareness and resource conservation. So in my opinion,the key feature of green building that enable to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change is energy efficiency.

Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of green buildings. Green buildings emphasise minimising energy use through several ways. Key elements include effective insulation, efficient HVAC systems, and maximising natural lighting. Green buildings lower greenhouse gas emissions by reducing dependency on fossil fuels. Moreover, renewable energy systems such as solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems allow certain buildings to produce their own energy and decrease their reliance on non-renewable sources.

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In my opinion, energy efficiency is very important. Green buildings prioritize energy efficiency through features like advanced insulation, efficient HVAC systems, smart meters, LED lighting, and sensors to power off appliances when not in use. This reduces overall energy consumption and associated emissions.

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“An endless number of green buildings does not make a sustainable city”.

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2) What are the key features of green buildings that enable them to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change?

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Hello everyone! I’m Maxine Wong from Quantity Surveying programme. Nice to meet you all. Hope we gain different insights from our discussion.

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From my personal interpretation, the quote simplified that a green building alone is not able to sustain without co-exisiting with other elements of sustanability. While green buildings can reduce energy consumption and lessen environmental impact, they do not necessarily address the social and economic aspects of sustainability. A sustainable city must also prioritize the well-being of its inhabitants, provide equitable access to resources and opportunities, and foster a sense of community.

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In my opinion, the quote actually tell us that while green buildings are an essential component of sustainable development, they alone are insufficient to create a truly sustainable city.

A city requires a lot more component to be labeled as sustainable city. Sustainability in cities requires a comprehensive approach that includes not just green buildings, but also sustainable transportation, efficient waste management, the use of renewable energy, water conservation, and social inclusivity.

Out of everything, we still cannot deny that the establishment of green buildings has a large contribution towards the steps of sustainability. It actually holds a piece towards a more complex puzzle. By addressing these vital components, we can be able to achieve a truly sustainable city for our future generations.

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Hi! I’m Aisyah from Quantity Surveying programme. I’m anticipating to exchange insights with all of you.

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Hiiii everyone! My name is Rachel Siow Ching Ni from Construction Project Management Programme. Ready to rock this discussion with y'all ;)

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For me, the quote "An endless number of green buildings does not make a sustainable city" implies that simply having numerous green buildings is not sufficient to ensure the sustainability of a city. It emphasizes that while green buildings are essential, true sustainability in a city requires a holistic approach that considers various interconnected aspects beyond just the presence of environmentally friendly buildings.

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From my point of view, the quote emphasizes that simply having a large number of environmentally friendly buildings is not sufficient to achieve overall urban sustainability. It suggests that a broader, more holistic approach is necessary.

Not just that, community involvement and good governance are crucial for sustainability. Policies need to be inclusive and participatory, encouraging residents to engage in sustainable practices and decision-making.

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Here are where the unbuilt gets on the stage. Those unbuilt can be turn into open spaces and parks, which are the important urban elements of architecture that allow the city to breathe both ecologically and mentally as it relieves the tension caused by the rigidness and the density of buildings. The city needs a balance of buildings and spaces. Those spaces can enhance sustainability if they have sufficient greenery and plantation to reduce the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere. They can provide fresh air which the buildings bereave from us. Furthermore, converting these spaces into social public spaces that are significant for the health of a society, utilising the undeveloped spaces of the city.

Therefore, making a sustainable city does not always require filling all city spaces with green buildings. When people stop being after their profits in terms of construction and start understanding that not building is also an option, we will have a more holistic and environmentally friendly approach towards our built and natural environment.

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Hi everyone! My name is Fadli Faiz from Quantity Surveying Programme. Really looking forward to be working with all your beauty brains :)

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Hi! I'm Azim. A third year student from Building Engineering and Technology programme. Nice to meet you all.

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In my understanding, an endless number of green buildings does not make a sustainable city means that even though there are a lot of green buildings in a city, it does not make any sustainable city. It is because a sustainable city means that it requires a comprehensive approach that includes many important factors compared to just having green building. For example, we need to consider about waste management, transportation, social and also economic factors while green building is just one of the components of a sustainable city.

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I think this is a saying quoted by Jan Gehl. The main meaning that this sentence trying to bring is that building green buildings itself cannot prolong a sustainability of a city.

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Hello everyone! I'm Intan Marlysha, from QS program. Nice to meet you all.

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'An endless number of green buildings does not make a sustainable city'. 

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What do you understand about the meaning behind the quote given above?

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Hi everyone, I am your group administrator, Phua Jia Ye from Quantity Surveying. Nice to meet you all. We are going to discuss a topic with four questions. (1 question posting per day) Welcome everyone to actively participate in the discussion. ^^