Architectural Design
January 15, 2024
Green building certifications are assessment systems that document a building's environmental performance against independent, internationally recognized standards. These certifications give building owners and investors an objective reference point on energy efficiency, water conservation and indoor air quality.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
Developed by the US Green Building Council, LEED is the most widely used green building certification system in the world. Buildings that accumulate points across categories including energy efficiency, water management, material selection, indoor environmental quality and innovation receive certification at one of four levels: Certified, Silver, Gold or Platinum. LEED-certified buildings deliver significant advantages in tenant satisfaction, resale value and corporate reputation.
BREEAM and ÇEDBIK
BREEAM, originating in the UK, is another widely used certification system, particularly in Europe. Turkey's own ÇEDBIK offers a more accessible framework for local projects by aligning evaluation criteria with local climate conditions and regulations. Both systems assess design, construction and operational phases comprehensively.
The Certification's Contribution to Investment
A green building certification may increase upfront costs, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the difference:
- 20–40% annual savings on energy and water bills
- Lower maintenance and repair costs
- Shorter time to find a tenant or buyer
- Concrete data usable in corporate sustainability reporting
- Zoning incentives in some municipalities
If you are planning a project targeting green building certification, working with a specialist engineering firm from the design phase makes the process both more efficient and more cost-effective.
Sustainability