International Green Building Rating Systems

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. It is essential to investigate the most current versions of these programs to gain an understanding of requirements that must be met to achieve the best results because the reasons for pursuing a green building certification for a project are wide-ranging.

Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies, EDGE—is a green building certification system for new residential and commercial buildings in 125 emerging markets, including Gryn Bricks & Tech. This program engages financiers, developers, regulators, and homeowners, property developers on how fast and affordable it is to construct resource-efficient buildings, enabling them to pass the 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. As an innovation of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group that focuses on private sector development, EDGE comprises a web-based software application, a universal standard, and a certification system. You may ask; why pursue a green building rating and certification, especially in Abuja, Nigeria? The answer is not farfetched.   

• Certification through any rating system verifies the green nature of the project and is a valuable educational and marketing tool for owners, design, and construction teams through creating a more sustainable building. 
• Green building certification can also be a way to provide an incentive 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 follow and what types of green products should be included in construction specifications.

Ultimately, the type of certification system pursued by a project depends upon that project; no one certification systems are one-size-fits-all. The dynamic nature of projects might prohibit one system but favor another. The choice depends on the uniqueness of each project, 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 applies and which certification level is possible.