As a construction company owner, you have a responsibility to ensure that your projects are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally sustainable. This is where green building certification comes in. Whether it’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), Green Globes, or some other certification program, green building certification can help you meet environmental standards, reduce operating costs, and gain a competitive advantage. But what exactly is green building certification, and how can it benefit your business? In this blog post, we’ll explore what every construction company owner should know about green building certification.
What is green building certification?
Green building certification is a process by which a building is evaluated against certain environmental criteria and awarded certification based on its level of compliance. The most well-known green building certification program is the LEED standard, which was developed by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) and has since been adopted in many countries around the world. Other certification programs include Green Globes, Living Building Challenge, and Passive House.
Why should you consider green building certification?
There are several good reasons to consider green building certification for your projects. First and foremost, green buildings consume less energy, water, and other resources than traditional buildings, which can lead to significant cost savings over the lifetime of the building. Green buildings are also healthier, more comfortable, and have better air quality, leading to higher productivity, less absenteeism, and lower healthcare costs. In addition, green buildings are more attractive to tenants and buyers, who are increasingly looking for sustainable properties.
How do you achieve green building certification?
Achieving green building certification requires a concerted effort to design and construct a building that meets certain environmental criteria. These criteria typically include things like energy efficiency, water efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and sustainable materials. To achieve certification, you’ll need to work with a certification body that will evaluate your building against these criteria and award points based on your level of compliance. The exact process will vary depending on the certification program you choose.
What are the costs and benefits of green building certification?
The costs of green building certification can vary depending on the size and complexity of your project, as well as the certification program you choose. However, studies have shown that the cost premium for green buildings over traditional buildings typically ranges from 0% to 4%, depending on the level of certification. In other words, building green doesn’t have to cost more than building traditionally. The benefits of green building certification, on the other hand, can be significant. In addition to the cost savings and health benefits mentioned above, green building certification can help you win more business, meet regulatory requirements, and improve your reputation as a socially responsible company.
What else should you know about green building certification?
While green building certification can be a valuable tool for construction company owners, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s not a silver bullet. Green building is a holistic construction approach that requires ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and improvement to ensure that the building continues to meet environmental standards over time. In addition, green building certification is just one of many tools available to construction company owners who are looking to reduce their environmental impact. Other strategies include incorporating renewable energy sources, using environmentally friendly products and materials, and designing buildings to be more adaptable and resilient in the face of climate change.
Conclusion
Green building certification is an important consideration for construction company owners who want to build sustainable, high-performing buildings that have a minimal impact on the environment and maximize the benefits to tenants, buyers, and the broader community. As we’ve seen, green building certification offers a range of benefits, including cost savings, improved health outcomes, competitive advantage, and regulatory compliance. By following the best practices of green building, construction company owners can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, attract new customers, and help create a more sustainable future for all of us.