What is the best way to choose a green building standard or tool for your project?

1 What are green building standards and tools?

Green building standards and tools are frameworks and methods that help you design, construct, operate, and evaluate buildings that minimize environmental impact and enhance human health and well-being. They can cover various aspects of sustainability, such as energy efficiency, water conservation, materials selection, indoor air quality, waste management, biodiversity, and social equity. Some examples of green building standards and tools are LEED, BREEAM, Green Star, Living Building Challenge, WELL, and SITES.

2 Why do you need a green building standard or tool?

Adopting a green building standard or tool can provide multiple advantages to your project, such as setting measurable objectives and targets for sustainability, offering guidance and best practices for sustainable design and construction, and enhancing the credibility and recognition of your project. Furthermore, it can improve the performance and value of your building over its life cycle, reduce operational costs and environmental footprint, create a healthier and more productive environment for occupants and users, as well as contribute to global and local sustainability goals and initiatives.

3 How to compare different green building standards and tools?

When it comes to selecting a green building standard or tool, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. You must consider the scope and scale of your project, such as whether it's a new or existing building, a single or multiple building, a residential or commercial project, and a local or international project. It's also important to evaluate the sustainability goals and priorities of your project, such as the environmental, social, and economic aspects you want to address. Additionally, you need to consider the availability and accessibility of the green building standard or tool in your region or market, as well as its flexibility and adaptability. Finally, you should assess the quality and reliability of the green building standard or tool by looking at its methodology and certification process, scientific basis and evidence, and reputable organization behind it.

4 How to use a green building standard or tool effectively?

To maximize the potential and value of a green building standard or tool, it is important to engage with it early in the design process and integrate it into your project vision, brief, and strategy. It is also essential to involve and communicate with all relevant stakeholders, such as clients, designers, contractors, consultants, and users. Furthermore, you must ensure you allocate enough time, budget, and resources for the implementation and assessment of the green building standard or tool. Throughout the project, you should monitor and document your progress and performance. This will allow you to use the feedback and results to improve your sustainability outcomes. Finally, don't forget to celebrate and showcase your achievements and learnings with your peers and the wider community.

5 How to keep learning and improving your green building skills?

Choosing and using a green building standard or tool is only the beginning of your sustainable design journey. It is a continuous process of learning and improving your skills and knowledge. To stay up to date, research the latest developments and innovations in green building standards and tools, as well as new and emerging options. Additionally, seek feedback and evaluation from clients, users, and experts to identify areas of improvement. Participate in training, education, and networking events related to green building standards and tools, and connect with other professionals in the field. Apply the principles and practices of green building standards to other aspects of your work and life, and inspire others to do the same.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?