Sustainable practices in the construction industry are constantly evolving. The increasing demand for buildings that prioritize environmental responsibility has led to the rise of certification systems designed to ensure projects meet high standards of efficiency and eco-consciousness. One system gaining prominence is the Green Building Initiative’s (GBI) Green Globes certification, which recognizes projects for their commitment to sustainability, health, wellness, and resilience. More than just a badge of honor, Green Globes certification reflects best practices that aim to positively impact both the environment and society.
The Green Globes building certification is available to a variety of construction types.
Achieving Green Globes Certification
The Green Building Initiative introduced Green Globes to the United States in 2004, offering a flexible and science-driven rating system that evaluates and promotes sustainable construction. Unlike more prescriptive certification frameworks, Green Globes provides tailored solutions that adapt to the unique needs of each project.
This flexibility sets Green Globes apart, as it doesn’t require specific features to earn points. Instead, it evaluates a range of sustainable practices that suit a project’s scope, size, and budget. Projects seeking certification are assessed in areas such as project management, site, energy, water, materials, and indoor environmental quality. Points are awarded based on performance in these areas, and buildings must score at least 35% of the 1,000 available points to qualify for certification.
For those who aim higher, additional Green Globes can be awarded for exceptional performance, with the potential to achieve up to four Globes. The certification process begins with uploading documentation and completing a questionnaire. From there, a GBI assessor conducts an initial evaluation of the project’s sustainable practices. Feedback from the assessment allows the project team to refine and improve, culminating in a final evaluation and certification.
Sustainable Practices in Action
Key to Green Globes’ appeal is its alignment with practical, impactful sustainable practices, particularly in industrial and commercial construction. For example, stormwater management often takes center stage in such projects. Features like corrugated stormwater systems and advanced filtration ensure runoff is filtered and pollutants are minimized before re-entering local waterways.
Additionally, urban heat island reduction is a vital focus. By incorporating reflective roofing materials with high albedo, projects can mitigate the absorption of heat, maintaining a cooler microclimate around the building. These strategies not only improve sustainability but also enhance the functionality and long-term efficiency of the building.
Construction methods such as tilt-up concrete panels also play a significant role in advancing sustainability goals. Tilt-up panels are poured and cured directly on-site, eliminating the need for transport and reducing emissions. This process also allows for customization, such as increased insulation or integrated features, which further contribute to the building’s overall efficiency and durability.
White TPO is used on the roof of a warehouse facility pursuing Green Globes, rather than traditional asphalt or black EPDM roofing. The high albedo material is designed to reflect light, limiting the amount of heat absorbed by the sounding area.
Why Choose Green Globes?
When considering sustainability certification systems, Green Globes stands out for its flexibility and practical approach. Compared to alternatives like LEED, Green Globes offers a more customizable path that adapts to the needs of the project. While LEED often requires prescriptive measures, Green Globes empowers project teams to focus on strategies that deliver the greatest impact for their specific goals.
This adaptability can make Green Globes a more accessible and cost-effective option, especially for projects with budget or timeline constraints. To learn more about how Green Globes compares to other certifications like LEED, explore our Guide to Sustainability Certifications for an in-depth analysis.
The Benefits of Certification
Earning Green Globes certification demonstrates innovation, accountability, and leadership in the construction industry. Certified buildings often achieve:
Opting for Green Globes ensures that the completed structure meets operational needs and contributes positively to the environment and surrounding community. From mitigating climate impact to fostering long-term value, Green Globes-certified buildings set the stage for a sustainable future.
Building a Greener Tomorrow
Sustainability is the future of construction. By incorporating thoughtful design, innovative materials, and rigorous certification systems like Green Globes, the industry can rise to the challenge of creating buildings that benefit people and the planet.
At Hourigan, we believe in helping our clients build with purpose. Whether you’re considering Green Globes, LEED, or another certification, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process. Together, we can create spaces that lead the way in sustainability, innovation, and lasting impact.
Jody Forehand, Project Executive
Jody Forehand is a seasoned Project Executive with over 30 years of experience managing diverse projects, from tenant improvements and urban redevelopments to ground-up construction on greenfield sites. He specializes in building strong stakeholder relationships and leading teams to deliver complex projects within tight budgets and schedules. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, Jody is committed to creating spaces that meet today’s needs while planning for the future.
