Environmental Certifications In Real Estate

In the realm of real estate, environmental certifications are optional initiatives that evaluate and certify the sustainability and environmental efficacy of buildings

Sustainability and energy efficiency certifications have gained significant traction in the real estate sector as a means to evaluate and highlight the performance of buildings. Although not obligatory, these certifications have witnessed a surge in popularity and are now highly regarded within the industry. They offer recognition and serve as evidence of a dedication to environmentally conscious and efficient practices, thereby boosting the reputation and value of both individual buildings and the organizations associated with them.

In the realm of real estate, environmental certifications are optional initiatives that evaluate and certify the sustainability and environmental efficacy of buildings or real estate projects. These certifications serve as independent validation and exemplify a dedication to eco-friendly and sustainable practices within the real estate sector.

Certifications for Sustainable Buildings

Categorizing portfolios of buildings according to their "green" credentials offers numerous advantages. By effectively showcasing the sustainability features, it becomes easier to position the properties in the sales and rental markets, attract environmentally conscious tenants or buyers, and even attract investments from stakeholders interested in sustainable ventures. This categorization can be accomplished through different frameworks and certifications that evaluate the environmental performance of buildings. In the context of increasing environmental awareness and the need for emission reduction, real estate professionals can no longer be overlooked. They must actively participate and contribute to sustainable practices in their industry. Below are some notable environmental certifications within the real estate industry:

1. BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method): It is a sustainability assessment method employed for the master planning of projects, infrastructure, and buildings. The BREEAM assessment assesses the procurement, design, construction, and operation of a development using performance benchmarks to evaluate its performance. Factors such as energy usage, water management, waste management, pollution, health and well-being, and innovation are taken into account during the BREEAM assessment process.

2. WELL Building Standard: A performance-based approach called the WELL Building Standard (WELL) has been created for measuring, certifying, and monitoring aspects of the built environment that have an impact on people's health and wellbeing through factors like air, water, nutrition, light, fitness, comfort, and mind. It assesses elements that support a healthy and productive environment, such as indoor air quality, water quality, lighting, comfort, and amenities.

3. LEED Energy Management: LEED certification is globally renowned as one of the most prominent green building certifications. It evaluates the sustainability of buildings by considering various factors such as energy efficiency, water preservation, material selection, indoor environmental quality, and site sustainability. LEED serves as a comprehensive guideline for project teams, enabling them to make informed decisions in these areas. It encourages and rewards exemplary practices and innovation, granting different levels of LEED certification to recognize outstanding projects.

4. EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies): The objective of EDGE certification is to minimize the environmental impact caused by the building sector. The certification system prioritizes the development of resource-efficient buildings in emerging markets. It places significant emphasis on the reduction of energy consumption, water usage, and embodied energy in building materials. It is essential to note that the EDGE Auditor must be an impartial third party, which means they cannot be a member of the project team. Put simply, the EDGE Auditor cannot have any conflicts of interest in the project.

With the building sector accounting for 19% of global energy-related emissions and consuming up to 40% of electricity, it is crucial to prioritize the reduction of the environmental impact caused by this sector. While it may appear that a sustainability certification involves numerous aspects, specific project requirements are established to address each unique case. These requirements are tailored based on whether the project pertains to new building design and construction, existing building maintenance, demolition,etc.

Conclusion

By obtaining these certifications, real estate developers, owners, and managers can demonstrate their dedication to sustainable practices, attract environmentally conscious tenants, and potentially enjoy financial benefits such as reduced operating costs and increased property value. Additionally, these certifications often provide guidelines and benchmarks for ongoing improvements and maintenance of the buildings, helping organizations strive for continuous sustainability and energy efficiency enhancements. In the real estate sector, sustainability, quality, and energy efficiency certifications are not mandatory, but they have evolved into valuable tools for distinguishing buildings, attracting stakeholders, and promoting a more sustainable built environment.