Green Globes for New Construction
Green Globes
Green Globes helps construct buildings greener and efficient.
Renewal costs $0 USD.
Key Strengths
- Federally recognized by the U.S. government (GSA and USDA)
- Flexible, points-based system adaptable to diverse building types
- Interactive online assessment tool guides teams through the process
- Third-party on-site verification ensures credibility
- More affordable and less administratively burdensome than LEED
- Tiered 1–4 Globe rating allows recognition at multiple performance levels
- Strong track record in healthcare and institutional buildings
Ideal For
Green Globes for New Construction is best suited for architects, developers, and building owners seeking a flexible, cost-effective green building certification for new commercial, institutional, or healthcare facilities. It is particularly well-suited for project teams that want a streamlined, less prescriptive alternative to LEED, especially those working on mid-size or complex building types where customization is valued.
Target Audiences
Relevant Roles
Industries
Alignment & Recognition
Accrediting Body
Recognized By
- Green Globes Standard
Building Scope
Overview
Green Globes for New Construction is a program offering an environmental assessment for new buildings, run by the Green Building Initiative (GBI). It provides a comprehensive review of design, construction, and sustainable operation. Historically, Green Globes began in Canada in 2000 and was later adapted by GBI for the U.S. market in 2004.
This certification involves an online evaluation followed by a third-party on-site assessment. Features examined include energy efficiency, water conservation, resource efficiency, and indoor environmental quality. Buildings can earn up to 1,000 points, and depending on the score, buildings receive 1 to 4 Green Globes.
Several renowned buildings, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities have achieved certification, including the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation and Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Bank in New York.
Professionals, often called Green Globes Professionals (GGP), are trained to guide projects through the certification process. The program supports builders and designers aiming for sustainable building practices without overly complex procedures.
Requirements & Verification
Evidence Requirements
Project teams must complete an online self-assessment questionnaire covering all relevant sustainability categories (energy, water, resources, emissions, indoor environment, site). Supporting documentation must be uploaded to the online platform. A qualified third-party assessor then conducts an on-site verification visit to confirm the submitted information, interview project staff, and review physical building systems. Final certification is awarded based on the verified point score.
Prerequisites
Assessment Process
The assessment process involves two phases. First, project teams complete an interactive online questionnaire covering all sustainability categories, uploading supporting documentation to the GBI platform. Second, a GBI-approved third-party assessor conducts an on-site verification visit to review building systems, documentation, and interview project personnel. The assessor submits a report to GBI, which awards a final score out of 1,000 points. Buildings scoring 35–54% earn 1 Globe, 55–69% earn 2 Globes, 70–84% earn 3 Globes, and 85–100% earn 4 Globes.
Renewal & Compliance
Green Globes certifications for new construction do not have a mandatory renewal cycle for the building certification itself; the certification is tied to the building's design and construction phase. However, building owners may pursue re-certification or upgrade their rating over time. Green Globes Professionals (GGPs) who guide projects through the process must maintain their individual credentials through continuing education requirements.
Accountability Model
Impact & Outcomes
Employer Recognition
Consider Alternatives If...
Avoid if your project requires a certification with the broadest global market recognition or if your tenants, investors, or local jurisdiction specifically mandate LEED certification. Also consider alternatives if your project is outside the U.S. or Canada, as Green Globes has limited international recognition.
Alternative Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Certification
English
2004
Available
