Green Building Certifications: Myths Vs. Facts

Overview

Green building certifications play a crucial role in promoting sustainable practices in the construction industry. However, misinformation and misconceptions about these certifications abound. In this article, we will debunk common myths and provide factual information about green building certifications.

Importance of Green Building Certifications

• Reduction of environmental impact: Green building certifications ensure that construction projects are designed and executed with sustainability in mind. This leads to reduced energy consumption, water usage, and waste generation.
• Enhanced indoor quality: Certified green buildings prioritize occupant health and well-being by improving indoor air quality, using non-toxic materials, and maximizing natural light.
• Market differentiation: Green building certifications create a competitive advantage for properties, signaling their commitment to sustainability and attracting environmentally-conscious tenants and buyers.
• Operational cost savings: Certified buildings are designed to be energy-efficient, resulting in long-term cost savings through reduced utility bills and maintenance expenses.
• Government incentives: Many governments offer incentives, such as tax breaks and expedited permits, to encourage green building practices and certifications.

LEED Certification: Separating Myth from Fact

• MYTH: LEED certification is only applicable to new construction projects.

FACT: LEED certification is available for both new construction and existing buildings through various rating systems, including LEED for Building Design and Construction (BD+C), LEED for Operations and Maintenance (O+M), and LEED for Interior Design and Construction (ID+C).

• MYTH: LEED certification is expensive and not financially feasible.

FACT: While initial costs may be higher than conventional construction, LEED-certified buildings often experience lower operating expenses, making them financially viable in the long run. Additionally, potential government incentives further offset costs.

• MYTH: LEED certification only focuses on energy efficiency.

FACT: LEED evaluates various aspects of sustainable building, including water efficiency, materials selection, indoor environmental quality, and innovation in design.

• MYTH: LEED certification is purely voluntary and lacks regulatory requirements.

FACT: While LEED itself is voluntary, some local governments and organizations reference LEED certification in their building codes and requirements.

• MYTH: LEED certification guarantees perfect environmental performance.

FACT: LEED certification signifies that a building meets certain sustainability criteria, but it does not guarantee flawless environmental performance. Ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and occupant behavior still influence a building’s actual sustainability performance.

BREEAM Certification: Debunking Common Misconceptions

• MYTH: BREEAM is only applicable in the United Kingdom.

FACT: While BREEAM originated in the UK, it has expanded globally and is now utilized in over 80 countries, including the United States, China, and Australia.

• MYTH: BREEAM certification primarily focuses on energy-related aspects.

FACT: BREEAM addresses a broad range of sustainability issues, including energy, water, materials, waste, health, pollution, ecology, and management.

• MYTH: BREEAM certification is too complicated and time-consuming.

FACT: While BREEAM may require additional effort during the design and construction phases, it provides a comprehensive framework for sustainable building practices, resulting in long-term benefits.

• MYTH: BREEAM certification is prohibitively expensive.

FACT: Similar to LEED certification, BREEAM-certified buildings often demonstrate reduced operation costs and increased asset value, offsetting initial expenses.

• MYTH: BREEAM certification is only relevant for large-scale developments.

FACT: BREEAM offers flexible assessment methods suitable for various building types and scales, including individual buildings, neighborhoods, and infrastructure projects.

WELL Certification: Setting the Record Straight

• MYTH: WELL certification is solely focused on physical health and has no environmental considerations.

FACT: While WELL prioritizes human health and well-being, it incorporates several environmental factors such as air quality, water quality, and lighting to create healthy and sustainable indoor spaces.

• MYTH: WELL certification is only applicable to commercial buildings.

FACT: WELL is applicable to a wide range of building types, including residential, educational, retail, and healthcare facilities.

• MYTH: WELL certification is too stringent and difficult to achieve.

FACT: While WELL sets high standards for indoor environmental quality, it offers flexibility through different certification levels, enabling projects to pursue achievable goals based on their specific needs and budgets.

• MYTH: WELL certification lacks a rigorous assessment process.

FACT: WELL certification involves an assessment by a third-party organization, ensuring objectivity and adherence to established standards.

• MYTH: WELL certification is merely a marketing strategy with no tangible benefits.

FACT: Research suggests that WELL-certified buildings improve productivity, reduce absenteeism, and enhance occupant satisfaction and well-being.

Conclusion

Green building certifications, such as LEED, BREEAM, and WELL, are valuable tools for promoting sustainable construction practices. By dispelling common misconceptions and understanding the true facts about these certifications, we can better recognize their significance in creating environmentally responsible and healthy buildings for our future.

References

1. usgbc.org

2. breeam.com

3. wellcertified.com

4. greenbuildingelements.com

5. gbci.org