Leadership In Energy And Environmental Design Research Articles

On the Necessity for Improving Water Efficiency in Commercial Buildings: A Green Design Approach in Hot Humid Climates

Water, a fundamental and indispensable resource necessary for the survival of living beings, has become a pressing issue in numerous regions worldwide due to scarcity. Urban areas, where the majority of the global population resides, witness a substantial consumption of blue water, particularly in commercial buildings. This study investigates the potential for enhancing water efficiency within an ongoing high-rise office building construction situated in a tropical climate. The investigation utilizes the green building guidelines of leadership in energy and environmental design (LEED) through a case-study-based research approach. Strategies included using efficient plumbing fixtures (such as high air–water ratio fixtures and dual-flush toilets), the selection of native plants, implementing a suitable irrigation system, introducing a rainwater harvesting system (RWHS) and improving the mechanical ventilation and air conditioning (MVAC) system. The results showed a 55% reduction in water use from efficient fixtures, a 93% reduction in landscaping water needs and a 73% overall water efficiency with a RWHS from the baseline design. Additionally, efficient cooling towers and the redirection of condensed water into the cooling tower make-up water tank improved the overall water efficiency to 38%, accounting for the water requirements of the MVAC system. The findings of this study can contribute to more sustainable and water-efficient urban development, particularly in regions facing water scarcity challenges. The significance of these findings lies in their potential to establish industry standards and inform policymakers in the building sector. They offer valuable insights for implementing effective strategies aimed at reducing blue water consumption across different building types.

Path to Net Zero: Understanding the Building Energy Efficiency in Different Climates across Various Building Types

This study analyses the determinants of building energy efficiency in different climate zones and user types. The energy consumption of buildings in different climate zones can be affected by well-known determinants in different ways. So do the buildings with different user types. The primary aim of this study is to investigate how building energy efficiency is determined in five major climate zones and four main property types. This study uses the global building data (Points Achieved dataset) from the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system 2010 to conduct three cross-sectional tests with logit regression models. The results confirm that the determinants of building energy efficiency are the location of the building, adoption of Building Energy Codes (BECs), climate zones, building types, regional economic development level (namely Gross National Income—GNI, Purchasing Power Parity—PPP) and population density. However, the impact of the determinants varies considerably in different climate zones or for different building types. This is the first empirical study exploring building energy efficiency and how it is determined in different climate conditions and user types. The findings are helpful for the stakeholders, such as policymakers, developers, and local authorities, when they hope to implement measures to improve building energy efficiency and the policy/regulation to boost it. Each building requires specific measures that suit its different climate zones or building types to enhance energy efficiency.

Evolution of the (Energy and Atmosphere) credit category in the LEED green buildings rating system for (Building Design and Construction: New Construction), from version 4.0 to version 4.1

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a certification program for quantitatively assessing the qualifications of homes, non-residential buildings, or neighborhoods in terms of sustainability. LEED is supported by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), a nonprofit membership-based organization. Worldwide, thousands of projects received one of the four levels of LEED certification. One of the five rating systems (or specialties) covered by LEED is the Building Design and Construction (BD + C), representing non-residential buildings. This rating system is further divided into eight adaptations. The adaptation (New Construction and Major Renovation) or NC applies to newly constructed projects as well as those going through a major renovation. The NC adaptation has six major credit categories, in addition to three minor ones. The nine credit categories together have a total of 110 attainable points. The Energy and Atmosphere (EA) credit category is the dominant one in the NC adaptation, with 33 attainable points under it. This important credit category addresses the topics of commissioning, energy consumption records, energy efficiency, use of refrigerants, utilization of onsite or offsite renewable energy, and real-time electric load management. This study aims to highlight some differences in the EA credit category for LEED BD + C:NC rating system as it evolved from version 4 (LEED v4, 2013) to version 4.1 (LEED v4.1, 2019). For example, the updated version 4.1 includes a metric for greenhouse gas reduction. Also, the updated version 4.1 no longer permits hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants in new heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration systems (HVAC & R). In addition, the updated version 4.1 classifies renewable energy into three tiers, differentiating between onsite, new-asset offsite, and old-asset offsite types.

A multi-aspect approach of a building to achieve optimization in India’s major green building rating systems by incorporating BIM

Abstract This paper delves into the concept of “green buildings,” structures designed to enhance the quality of life within their geographical context through their unique attributes. In the context of India, this study focuses on three primary green building rating systems: LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), IGBC (Indian Green Building Council), and GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment). The objective of this article is to present an optimized three-dimensional model for a commercial building, employing Building Information Modelling (BIM) techniques. To achieve this, a checklist is developed based on the maximum rating points stipulated by the aforementioned rating systems. Using this checklist as a guideline, a three-dimensional model is constructed, integrating key parameters of sustainability and environmental performance. Subsequently, a cost analysis is conducted on the model to determine the payback time, thus establishing a holistic framework for sustainable building design. This research contributes to the advancement of sustainable architectural practices by integrating BIM technology with green building rating systems, providing a valuable methodology for architects and stakeholders to optimize commercial building designs with an emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Sustainable development in affordable housing: Policy innovations and challenges

As the global urban population continues to expand, the need for affordable and sustainable housing solutions becomes increasingly urgent. This review explores policy innovations and challenges in the realm of sustainable development for affordable housing. It aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of how sustainable practices can be integrated into affordable housing policies and the obstacles faced in implementing these strategies. Sustainable development in affordable housing encompasses environmental, economic, and social dimensions. Environmentally, it involves the use of green building materials, energy-efficient designs, and sustainable construction practices that minimize carbon footprints. Economically, sustainable affordable housing seeks to reduce long-term costs for residents through energy savings and maintenance efficiencies. Socially, it aims to create healthy, inclusive, and resilient communities. Policy innovations in this field have shown promising results. Green building standards, such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and the Passive House standard, have been adapted to affordable housing projects, demonstrating that sustainability and affordability can coexist. Governments and organizations have introduced various incentives and financing mechanisms, such as grants, low-interest loans, and tax credits, to promote green affordable housing. Additionally, public-private partnerships have been instrumental in driving sustainable affordable housing developments, leveraging the strengths of both sectors. However, significant challenges remain. One of the primary obstacles is the higher initial cost associated with sustainable building practices, which can deter investment in affordable housing projects. There are also regulatory and policy barriers that can complicate the implementation of sustainable practices. Furthermore, a lack of awareness and technical expertise in sustainable construction among developers and builders poses another significant hurdle. Case studies from different regions highlight both the successes and challenges of integrating sustainability into affordable housing. For instance, projects in Europe have successfully combined affordability with high environmental standards, while initiatives in developing countries have faced more pronounced financial and regulatory challenges. The review concludes that while policy innovations have made strides in promoting sustainable development in affordable housing, addressing the existing challenges requires concerted efforts from governments, private sector stakeholders, and communities. Future directions should focus on enhancing financial models, streamlining regulatory frameworks, and building capacity for sustainable practices. This comprehensive approach will be crucial for achieving long-term sustainability and affordability in housing.

Dematerialization of Concrete: Meta-Analysis of Lightweight Expanded Clay Concrete for Compressive Strength

The construction industry is responsible for a significant share of global material consumption, including natural resources. Therefore, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12.2 on sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources cannot be achieved without significant advances and contributions from the construction sector. Furthermore, various materials used by the construction industry contribute to the development and expansion of the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) system. LECA (Light Expanded Clay Aggregate) is one such material that enhances LEED performance through its key benefits, including lightness, thermal insulation, sound insulation, and fire resistance. One of the most effective methods for reducing the weight of concrete is the incorporation of lightweight aggregates, and the advantages of LECA include lessening loads and enabling reduced cross-sections, directly improving the sustainability of the built environment via reduced materials consumption. This study aims to develop a prediction model for the compressive strength of LECA-incorporated concrete through a meta-analysis. More than 140 data points were compiled through literature via 15 separate studies, and results were analyzed to conduct the meta-analysis. Moreover, an experimental program was carried out to verify the model and evaluate its accuracy in predicting compressive strength. Results from the developed model and the experimental program were in accordance with concrete having lower compressive strengths compared to those at high strength values. Likewise, more accurate results were obtained for concrete mixes that have w/b ratios of 0.5 or higher. Concrete mixes that have higher amounts of LECA by volume of concrete yielded more accurate results when using the prediction model. A sensitivity analysis was carried out to quantify the impact of several parameters on the compressive strength of LECA concrete.

Indoor environmental quality in WELL-certified and LEED-certified buildings

International building certification systems, such as the WELL and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards, play a pivotal role in the design of healthy and sustainable buildings. While LEED adopts a holistic approach to designing healthy and sustainable buildings, the WELL standard has a strong emphasis on human health, comfort, and well-being. Although prior research has revealed inconsistent results for occupant satisfaction in office buildings with WELL certification compared to buildings without WELL certification, or are certified using another certification system (e.g., LEED), most of these comparisons tend to lack methodological rigor. This study used a statistical procedure to match and compare 1634 occupant surveys from LEED-certified buildings to 1634 surveys from WELL-certified buildings. Six important architectural and experiential parameters were matched, masking their influence on the outcome. Overall building and workspace satisfaction was high in both WELL-certified buildings (94% and 87%) and LEED-certified (73% and 71%). We found that there is a 39% higher probability of finding occupants who are more satisfied in WELL-certified buildings compared to LEED-certified buildings, indicating occupant satisfaction is higher in buildings with WELL certification. Although we were unable to pinpoint the reason for higher occupant satisfaction in WELL-certified buildings, the results consistently showed that perceived indoor environmental quality was enhanced across all parameters except for the amount of space.

Within‐ and across‐province agglomeration of LEED certifications in China

AbstractThis paper investigates the adoption patterns of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification in China, analyzing data from 2010 to 2021. We find that builders' choices of certification levels are positively correlated within each province. However, for commercial buildings, builders differentiate from each other in the choice of certification levels. The study also identifies spatial spillovers of LEED certification across nearby provinces. We propose potential explanations for these findings and discuss their policy implications. The results suggest that the design of certification schemes should account for the strategic behavior of firms. Additionally, regional policies promoting green building certifications may have spillover effects, encouraging adoption in neighboring regions.

Towards Sustainable Urban Transformation: The Role of LEED Certification in Istanbul's Future and Economy

Istanbul, a city with a rich history and vibrant culture, faces the imminent threat of a catastrophic earthquake due to its proximity to the North Anatolian Earthquake Fault. In response, the Turkish government has initiated a sweeping urban transformation led by the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization. This initiative aims to not only rebuild the city but also to enhance its resilience to earthquakes and environmental challenges. Central to this transformation is the adoption of green building principles, particularly LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. LEED provides a comprehensive framework for sustainable building design, construction, and operation, encompassing categories such as Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality, Innovation, and Regional Priority. This paper examines the economic and future considerations of enforcing green certification during Istanbul's urban transformation. Through a detailed analysis of the costs and benefits of LEED certification across different categories, as well as alternative approaches to sustainability, this paper aims to provide a holistic view of the implications for Istanbul's economic landscape and long-term prospects. By integrating environmental sustainability into its urban renewal efforts, Istanbul has the opportunity to not only mitigate the risks of earthquakes but also to emerge as a model for sustainable, environmentally conscious urban development. This paper seeks to highlight the importance of green certification in shaping Istanbul's urban landscape for generations to come, with a focus on economic considerations, environmental impacts, and broader implications for the city's future.

INTEGRATING SUSTAINABILITY INTO HVAC PROJECT MANAGEMENT: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

As environmental concerns continue to escalate, the integration of sustainability principles into project management practices has emerged as a crucial endeavor across various industries. In the realm of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, where energy consumption and environmental impact are significant, the incorporation of sustainable practices presents both challenges and opportunities. This review provides an overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating sustainability into HVAC project management. Challenges in integrating sustainability into HVAC project management stem from various factors, including technological limitations, cost considerations, and organizational barriers. Technologically, the adoption of sustainable HVAC solutions often requires investments in advanced equipment and systems, which may not always be readily available or affordable for all projects. Additionally, the upfront costs of implementing sustainable practices can be perceived as prohibitive, especially in industries where budget constraints are prevalent. Moreover, organizational inertia and resistance to change pose significant challenges, as stakeholders may be hesitant to deviate from traditional HVAC methodologies. Despite these challenges, there exist ample opportunities for integrating sustainability into HVAC project management. Advancements in technology, such as the development of energy-efficient HVAC systems and renewable energy integration, provide opportunities to reduce environmental impact while enhancing operational efficiency. Furthermore, the growing emphasis on green building certifications, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), incentivizes the adoption of sustainable HVAC practices by offering recognition and financial benefits to projects that meet stringent sustainability criteria. Moreover, the increasing awareness of environmental issues and regulatory requirements underscores the importance of integrating sustainability into HVAC project management. By aligning with regulatory standards and industry best practices, organizations can mitigate risks associated with non-compliance while enhancing their reputation as environmentally responsible entities. While challenges persist, the integration of sustainability into HVAC project management presents significant opportunities for organizations to mitigate environmental impact, enhance operational efficiency, and foster a culture of innovation. By addressing these challenges proactively and leveraging available opportunities, organizations can position themselves as leaders in sustainable HVAC project management.
 Keywords: HVAC, Project Management, Challenges, Sustainability, Review.

Green building progress assessment: analysis of registered and certified buildings for LEED rating system

Green buildings are of great importance to overcome climate change effects and the depletion of natural resources. This paper aims to provide a review of the progress in green building constructions that have used the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system for the last two decades. To do this the researchers have analyzed the data of around 61000 LEED-registered buildings (from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) website) Using Google data analysis module studying different factors affecting green building growth and trying to spot any possible correlation between LEED and each factor. The review will provide the researchers and the construction industry with the necessary information about the analysis of green building development. The results showed the trends in the green building progress and provided insight analysis for the reasons behind this progress which can help rating system developers, green building designers, and governmental decision-makers, to promote green building worldwide.

Water Quality Trade-offs for Risk Management Interventions in a Green Building.

Premise plumbing water quality degradation has led to negative health impacts from pathogen outbreaks (e.g., Legionella pneumophila and non-tuberculous mycobacteria), as well as chronic effects from exposure to heavy metals or disinfection by-products (DBP). Common water quality management interventions include flushing, heat shock (thermal disinfection), supplemental disinfection (shock or super chlorination), and water heater temperature setpoint change. In this study, a Legionella pneumophila- colonized Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified building was monitored to study health-relevant water quality changes before and after three controlled management interventions: (1) flushing at several points throughout the building; (2) changing the water heater set point; and (3) a combination of interventions (1) and (2) by flushing during a period of elevated water heater set point (incompletely performed due to operational issues). Microbial (culturable L. pneumophila, the L. pneumophila mip gene, and cATP) and physico-chemical (pH, temperature, conductivity, disinfectant residual, disinfection by-products (DBPs; total trihalomethanes, TTHM), and heavy metals) water quality were monitored alongside building occupancy as approximated using Wi-Fi logins. Flushing alone resulted in a significant decrease in cATP and L. pneumophila concentrations (p = 0.018 and 0.019, respectively) and a significant increase in chlorine concentrations (p = 0.002) as well as iron and DBP levels (p = 0.002). Copper concentrations increased during the water heater temperature setpoint increase alone to 140°F during December 2022 (p = 0.01). During the flushing and elevated temperature in parts of the building in February 2023, there was a significant increase in chlorine concentrations (p = 0.002) and iron (p = 0.002) but no significant decrease in L. pneumophila concentrations in the drinking water samples (p = 0.27). This study demonstrated the potential impacts of short term or incompletely implemented interventions which in this case were not sufficient to holistically improve water quality. As implementing interventions is logistically- and time-intensive, more effective and holistic approaches are needed for informing preventative and corrective actions that are beneficial for multiple water quality and sustainability goals.

LEED applicability in bank branches: A study of the World's first two platinum cases

Environmental, social, and governance frameworks promote climate awareness, driving firms to balance energy-saving with profit. Although green building projects are noteworthy, enhancing the energy efficiency of existing buildings is crucial. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) V4.1 Operations and Maintenance (O + M): Existing Buildings (EB) rating system is favored; however, there is a lack of platinum-level cases and research regarding its applicability within commercial bank branches. This study aims to test the applicability of the rating system in commercial bank branches to achieve platinum-level certification. Two bank branches were selected to ensure reproducible findings. The study elucidates the applicability of the rating system in commercial bank branches; the results for certification levels, certification cost, and certification time all exceeded expectations. These findings were demonstrated through the success cases of E.SUN Commercial Bank's Linyuan and Nanzi branches, which became the world's first two to achieve platinum-level certification. This study summarizes a structured approach, enabling both branches to keep the certification costs under 1.42 % of the total construction cost, reduce the certification application time by 21 %, and attain platinum-level certification. The structured approach and insights derived from the application process, as illustrated in this study, provide a replicable and reproducible model for other commercial bank branches worldwide.

Spatial Model for Energy Consumption of LEED-Certified Buildings

In this research endeavor, we undertook a comprehensive examination of the factors influencing the energy consumption of LEED-certified buildings, employing both a general linear regression model and a spatial delayed regression model. Gaining a profound understanding of energy utilization patterns within LEED-certified structures can significantly contribute to advancing eco-friendly construction practices. Our investigation draws upon data from a 2010 study conducted at the University of Wisconsin—Madison (UW), encompassing various independent variables, such as temperature, that exhibit some degree of correlation with energy consumption in LEED-certified buildings. The principal objective of this study is twofold: firstly, to ascertain the significance of specific exogenous variables, notably temperature, and secondly, to explore the impact of spatial factors, such as function and location, on energy usage. Our research framework encompasses meticulous data collection and rigorous analysis, culminating in the presentation and discussion of our findings. Notably, our study unveils intriguing insights. Contrary to conventional assumptions, we discovered that the energy consumption of LEED-certified buildings does not exhibit a robust linear association with average annual temperature, the count of power plants within a 50 mile radius, or the LEED rating itself. However, our spatial regression models unveil a compelling narrative: the geographic distribution and functional diversity of distinct LEED buildings wield discernible influence over energy consumption patterns. The implications of our research resonate profoundly in the realm of LEED-certified building design and construction. Architects, builders, and stakeholders should consider the nuanced interplay of spatial variables and geographical positioning in the pursuit of optimal energy efficiency. Moreover, our findings stimulate further inquiry in this field, paving the way for future investigations aimed at refining sustainable building practices and enhancing our understanding of energy consumption within LEED-certified structures.

Energy saving and Green building Certification: Case study of commercial buildings in Warsaw, Poland

Different certification systems are used in the construction market. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) or Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) certification consists of many factors and criteria that have been developed by specialists from such as construction, architecture, ecology, energy, water, renewable energy management, and waste management. Both are criteria-based tools and are becoming increasingly popular in the global construction industry. The LEED provides building owners and managers with tools to identify and implement appropriate solutions for the ecological design, construction, and operation of buildings. BREEAM involves an assessment of the quality and direct impact of buildings on the natural environment. This paper presents a study of retail buildings: (i) Galeria Północna, (ii) Złote Tarasy, and (iii) Westfield Arkadia, located in Warsaw (Poland) certified using a multi-criteria rating system. All buildings were rated highly by the rating system. In this paper, the cases in terms of certification and issues related to the design and construction of these buildings are analyzed and discussed in detail. It was confirmed that the multi-criteria certification systems used made it possible to meet certification requirements while respecting the natural environment.

Spatiotemporal distribution of green-certified buildings and the influencing factors: A study of U.S.

Green building development is a global strategic plan aimed at addressing environmental burdens and reducing energy consumption in the building sector. Currently, research does not adequately reveal the spatiotemporal patterns of green-certified building development and the factors that influence it. To address this gap, this study investigates the dynamic distribution of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified projects in the U.S. by incorporating time effects into spatial regression models. The results reveal that (1) significant regional variations in the spatiotemporal distribution of green-certified buildings (global Moran's index for 2017, 2019 and 2021 are 0.0172, 0.0327 and 0.0622 respectively). (2) Demographic, socioeconomic, environmental, and policymaking factors explain the observed patterns (the mean values of the coefficients of population size, the Caucasian demographic proportion to the total population, income inequality, regional price parity, and average annual temperature were 8236.1383, −18.9113, −533.1024, 365.1813 and 227.1735 respectively). (3) Expedited permitting, reduced fees, and property tax credit or exemption (p-values less than 0.01) are significant policy instruments that promote the implementation of LEED certified projects. The findings offer pivotal insights that enable targeted interventions, informed decisions, and effective resource allocation. Furthermore, it furnishes a reference for strategically siting green building initiatives in the next phase, encompassing zero-energy buildings, green technologies, and low-carbon solutions. Enhancing understanding of complexities in U.S. green-certified building practices, this research acts as an evidence-based cornerstone across sectors. Urban planners can leverage these insights to allocate resources efficiently and steer green-certified projects, for impactful environmental sustainability and community progress. Policymakers can customize incentives based on drivers of adoption, promoting equitable distribution. Meanwhile, construction stakeholders can optimize strategies through decoding temporal and spatial adoption patterns, leading to prudent resource use and project success.

Integrating BIM Processes with LEED Certification: A Comprehensive Framework for Sustainable Building Design

In response to the pressing demand for sustainable building practices within the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector, this study investigates the integration of building information modeling (BIM) processes with the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification system, with a primary focus on enhancing sustainable design strategies. The objectives are twofold: firstly, to comprehensively understand the existing synergies between BIM and LEED, and secondly, to develop innovative methods that facilitate a seamless integration of these two crucial components. The study is structured into four distinct phases, each contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the synergistic relationship between BIM and LEED. In Phase 1, the “LEED-BIM Worksheets” is introduced, versatile tools designed to facilitate sustainable strategy formulation. These worksheets transparently identify roles, assess competencies, estimate certification levels, and enhance communication among stakeholders. Phase 2 highlights the “BIM Uses for Project Phase” diagram, emphasizing interdependencies between BIM uses and processes. This diagram provides insights into collaborative synergies among BIM uses and streamlines process mapping. Phase 3 introduces the “Liv1 Process Map”, a transformative visual representation of the building process. Integrated within building execution plans (BEPs), this map intricately weaves together responsible parties and BIM uses, fostering cohesive collaboration. Phase 4 extends the research with the introduction of the “Liv.2 Process Map”. This extension integrates selected BIM uses from the LEED Pilot Credits Library, emphasizing alignment between BIM processes and LEED credit criteria. Collectively, this research illuminates the potential for streamlining sustainable practices within the AEC sector. The findings offer valuable insights for both practitioners and researchers, empowering them to navigate the integration of BIM technology with LEED certification. By harmonizing digital transformation with ecological consciousness, this research significantly contributes to advancing sustainable building practices.

From existing conventional building towards LEED certified green building: case study in Bangladesh

Green Building refers to the planning, design, construction, and operation of buildings considering indoor environment quality, occupant health, using energy, water, and other resources more efficiently; and reducing waste, pollution, and the overall environmental impact. Among the Green Building guidelines, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) offers a certification and rating system by which buildings are certified in different categories. The LEED rating system is used to rate an existing building how much it is fulfilling the criteria of Green Building (GB) or not. This research explored how an existing conventional building can be retrofitted to satisfy green building standards. An academic building of KUET has been selected for the study. A field survey and Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) tools (i.e., Focus Group Discussion (FGD), Key Informant Interview (KII)) were used for the data collection and then the data was analyzed by comparative analysis concerning the LEED 2009 rating system for assessing the building. The New Academic building receives 31 points out of 110 and so cannot earn any certification level. The lacking for which the points were not gained is identified and the installation of water and energy efficiency features, rooftop gardening is suggested as retrofitting options to earn the green building certification level.

LEED and BREEAM Green Building Certification Systems as Possible Game Changers in Attaining Low-Cost Energy-Efficient Urban Housing Projects

LEED and BREEAM Green Building Certification Systems as Possible Game Changers in Attaining Low-Cost Energy-Efficient Urban Housing Projects

IS SUSTAINABILITY COSTLY? EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM BUILT PROJECTS

ABSTRACT The affordability of sustainable building remains a significant challenge; developers, building owners, and design teams often point to high construction costs as the primary obstacle hindering the uptake of sustainable building. Because of a lack of clarity, empirical studies and evidence supporting the claim of sustainable building as expensive are inadequate, thus the perceived high cost of sustainable building is still debatable. This study has a three-pronged approach: (1) to collect actual construction costs of certified sustainable buildings, (2) to take a deep dive into construction cost using empirical data and analyze the correlation between the level of sustainability and the construction cost, and (3) to examine the influence of cost components on the total construction cost. Data from 72 LEED buildings was collected and included in the analysis. The findings show the following: (a) the construction costs of the studied sustainable buildings are comparable to those of conventional buildings (even lower); (b) the correlation between the level of sustainability and the construction cost is inconclusive; and (c) soft costs, especially the design cost, have a similar level of influence on the total construction cost as those of hard costs.