Green Globes for Core & Shell Protocol
Green Globes
Green Globes certifies eco-friendly building designs and structures.
Key Strengths
- Federally recognized by the U.S. government for green building compliance
- Flexible, project-specific approach accommodates diverse building types and budgets
- Third-party assessor model ensures credible, independent evaluation
- Adapted from BREEAM with practical, user-friendly online assessment tools
- Recognized for Guiding Principles Compliance for federal buildings
- Tiered 1–4 Globe rating system allows incremental sustainability achievement
Ideal For
Best suited for real estate developers, building owners, and architects working on new commercial construction projects where only the core structure and shell are being delivered to tenants. Ideal for those seeking a federally recognized, cost-effective alternative to LEED that offers flexibility and third-party credibility without overly prescriptive requirements.
Target Audiences
Relevant Roles
Industries
Alignment & Recognition
Accrediting Body
Recognized By
- Green Globes Standard
- Guiding Principles Compliance
Building Scope
Overview
The Green Globes for Core & Shell Protocol is a certification program provided by the Green Building Initiative (GBI). It focuses on assessing and improving the sustainability of building shells and core components. This program looks at various sustainability factors like energy use, water efficiency, and indoor air quality. Originating in the early 2000s, Green Globes was adapted from the Canadian BREEAM system to suit American standards.
Green Globes offers a flexible and user-friendly approach to green building certification, making it suitable for a wide range of projects and professionals. The system is used by architects, builders, and property managers to improve environmental performance and achieve sustainability goals.
Notable clients include major organizations like MGM Resorts and Chase Bank, showcasing the program's industry acceptance and relevance. The certification is conducted by professionals trained under the GBI standards, ensuring a rigorous and credible evaluation process. This system underscores GBI's commitment to fostering sustainable building practices in a practical, comprehensive manner.
Requirements & Verification
Evidence Requirements
Applicants must complete an online self-assessment questionnaire covering energy, water, resources, emissions, indoor environment, and site criteria. Documentation supporting claimed credits must be uploaded, including energy models, specifications, drawings, and product data sheets. A third-party GBI-approved assessor then conducts a site visit and document review to verify submitted information and assign a Globe rating.
Prerequisites
Assessment Process
There is no written exam. Assessment involves a two-stage process: (1) an online self-assessment questionnaire completed by the project team covering seven sustainability categories, and (2) a site visit and documentation review conducted by a GBI-approved third-party assessor who verifies submitted evidence, interviews project stakeholders, and assigns a final Globe rating (1–4 Globes) based on points achieved.
Renewal & Compliance
Green Globes certifications are valid for a defined period and require recertification to maintain status. Buildings must undergo a new assessment cycle, including an updated online questionnaire and third-party assessor review, to renew their certification. Fees apply for the renewal assessment process.
Accountability Model
Impact & Outcomes
Employer Recognition
Consider Alternatives If...
If your project requires international recognition or a globally dominant brand, LEED may offer broader market recognition. Also consider alternatives if your project involves full tenant fit-out, as the Core & Shell protocol specifically excludes interior tenant spaces.
Alternative Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Certification
English
2004
Available
