¿What is the Green Building Council??

The Green Building Council is an organization that plays a crucial role in sustainable construction, promoting and certifying sustainable buildings worldwide. It focuses on energy efficiency, the use of renewable materials and sources, waste reduction, and the conservation of natural resources.

What is sustainable construction?

Sustainable construction refers to the practice of designing, constructing, and operating buildings in a way that is environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and economically viable in the long term. It focuses on reducing environmental impact through the efficient use of natural resources, waste minimization, and the adoption of sustainable technologies and materials. Additionally, sustainable architecture promotes the health and well-being of occupants and integrates social aspects such as equity and community participation.

Key objectives of the Green Building Council

Promoting sustainable construction

Adopting standards and certifications that support eco-friendly and environmentally-responsible buildings worldwide.
Raising awareness about the benefits of sustainable construction and the importance of reducing the environmental impact of buildings.
Working closely with key stakeholders in the construction industry, such as businesses, governments, institutions, etc.
Providing education and training for professionals in the sector to increase understanding and knowledge.
Driving research and the exchange of best practices, networking, and collaboration on sustainable projects

Promoting energy efficiency in buildings

Reducing energy consumption and promoting the adoption of practices and technologies that improve energy efficiency.
Promoting guidelines for the design and construction of energy-efficient buildings.
Offering certification programs, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), that assess and recognize buildings that meet energy efficiency criteria.
Generating economic and reputational benefits for building owners and occupants.
Contributing to climate change mitigation and reducing the environmental impact of the construction industry.

Reducing the environmental impact of construction

Using renewable, recycled, and low-impact materials in construction.
Promoting efficiency in water consumption, lighting, heating, cooling, etc., in buildings.
Managing waste generated in construction, separating and recycling materials, minimizing waste, and properly disposing of waste.
Conserving biodiversity by preserving green areas, incorporating natural spaces into designs, and protecting ecosystems.

Principles of the Green Building Council

Sustainable Design and Energy Efficiency

Promoting sustainability in the design, construction, and operation of buildings.
Considering the balance between environmental, economic, and social aspects.
Seeking solutions that are viable in the long term.
Emphasizing the importance of improving energy efficiency.
Adopting technologies and practices that reduce energy demand and emissions.

Sustainable Materials and Resources

Encouraging the use of sustainable materials with low environmental impact.
Reducing the use of non-renewable resources and minimizing waste generation.
Promoting the recycling and reuse of construction materials.

Indoor Environmental Quality

Improving indoor air quality in buildings.
Promoting natural lighting in buildings.
Controlling room temperature to reduce energy consumption.
Creating healthy and comfortable spaces to improve quality of life.

Innovation and Technology

Finding innovative solutions to improve energy efficiency.
Using intelligent energy management and monitoring systems to measure performance.
Integrating green technologies and renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or geothermal energy.
Promoting integrated design from the early stages of a project.
Promoting training and outreach programs on sustainable construction.

Benefits of joining the Green Building Council

The benefits of the Green Building Council for the construction industry, building owners, and occupants are as follows:

Advantages for the Construction Industry

Improved reputation and differentiation in a market that is increasingly environmentally conscious.
Access to best practices, knowledge resources, updated standards, and guidelines on sustainable construction.
Opportunities for collaboration with other companies, professionals, and experts, which can lead to strategic partnerships, mutual learning, and joint project development.
Compliance with regulations and governmental requirements related to sustainability in construction, avoiding potential sanctions or penalties.

Advantages for Building Owners and Occupants

Cost savings through reduced energy consumption and long-term building operation and maintenance.
Improved health and well-being with a healthy indoor environment, better air quality, proper lighting, and the use of non-toxic materials.
Increased real estate market value and attractiveness to sustainability-conscious occupants and tenants.
Contribution to environmental protection by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, minimizing resource consumption, and promoting sustainable practices.

How to join the Green Building Council

To join the Green Building Council and obtain certification for its programs, certain requirements must be met, and a certification process must be followed.

Certification Requirements and Process

Identify the certification program, such as LEED, that aligns with your needs and goals.
Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements that need to be met.
Design and construct the building in accordance with the standards, including aspects such as energy efficiency, use of sustainable materials, indoor environmental quality, water management, among others.
Submit the certification application with detailed project information, documentation of compliance with requirements, and payment of the corresponding fees.
Thoroughly evaluate and review the application, which may include reviewing the provided documentation, conducting site inspections, and verifying compliance with requirements.
Obtain certification in the form of a certification level (e.g., Platinum, Gold, Silver) or a specific rating according to the program.