Shaping a greener future

This exclusive interview delves into GBCI’s commitment to shaping a greener future. We explore their innovative approaches to green certification, international collaborations, and the evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and construction.

How does GBCI ensure that certified buildings meet sustainability standards over time?
The Green Business Certification Institute (GBCI) is committed to ensuring that certified buildings maintain their sustainability standards over some time, and to achieve this, we use a comprehensive approach. The certification process involves rigorous assessments to verify that a building meets the specified sustainability criteria. However, we also recognise that sustainability is an evolving concept, and buildings must adapt to changing environmental, social, and economic conditions.

In this regard, we have developed a technology platform – Arc (www.arcskoru.com), which helps the building owners and facility leaders monitor the building’s ongoing sustainability performance. This process includes examining energy usage, water consumption, indoor air quality, and other relevant metrics. Corrective measures are recommended if the building no longer meets the required standards, and recertification is contingent on successful implementation.

Additionally, we encourage continuous improvement through our LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system. LEED provides a framework for ongoing sustainability performance and allows building owners to earn additional credits for implementing innovative green strategies. By promoting a culture of continuous improvement, we ensure that certified buildings not only meet but exceed sustainability standards over time.

With the advancement of technology, how is GBCI incorporating innovations in architecture and construction to enhance sustainability efforts?
We actively incorporate technological advancements into its certification processes to stay at the forefront of innovation. Building Information Modeling (BIM), for instance, has emerged as a powerful tool in design and construction. We encourage its use to optimise building performance and enhance energy efficiency.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is another area where we embrace innovation. Smart building technologies, such as sensor networks and building automation systems, can significantly contribute to resource efficiency. We encourage the integration of these technologies into certified buildings to monitor and manage energy consumption, water usage, and other key performance indicators.

Also, at GBCI, we collaborate with technology providers and industry experts to continually update its certification standards. This ensures that the certification process remains relevant and reflects the latest sustainable design and construction advancements.

What emerging trends do you see in sustainable building practices in architecture and construction, and how is GBCI adapting to these changes?
One significant trend is the increased emphasis on regenerative design, which goes beyond sustainability to restore and enhance ecosystems actively. GBCI is updating its certification standards to encompass regenerative principles, encouraging projects to contribute positively to their surroundings.

Circular economy principles are also gaining prominence, emphasising resource efficiency, waste reduction, and the reuse of materials. GBCI recognises the importance of incorporating circular economy concepts into the certification process and is actively working to integrate these principles into its standards.

Additionally, wellness-focused design is becoming a key consideration. GBCI acknowledges the built environment’s impact on occupant health and well-being and is evolving its certification criteria to include aspects such as indoor air quality, natural light, and biophilic design.

For more info visit: https://www.gbci.org/

61