A framework for the implementation of green certification of buildings in Ghana

Abstract

Buildings are responsible for more than 40% of global energy use and one third of global greenhouse gas emissions both in developed and developing countries. A number of buildings are constructed every year but only a small number of them can be identified as ‘green buildings’. Despite the well-known benefits of green certification of buildings, it still remains in the state of infancy in Ghana, and adequate diffusion and implementation strategies should be put in place to ensure that they become more established. This paper sought to propose an implementation framework that can aid the certifying body in making decisions in relation to implementing the green certification of buildings in Ghana. The methodology was based on schedule interview with representatives of professional bodies with knowledge on the subject matter. The findings of this study indicate that while the knowledge of green certification of building exist in Ghana, some of the professional bodies in the built environment rarely use their influence to promote this green certification of buildings which does not help in its diffusion. The implication of the findings is to enable the certifying body for green buildings in Ghana to make decisions relating to its implementation.