Green Globes Multifamily for Existing Buildings Protocols
Green Globes
Green Globes certifies eco-friendly multifamily buildings.
Key Strengths
- Federally recognized by the U.S. government, including the Department of Veterans Affairs
- Practical, achievable sustainability benchmarks suited for existing multifamily buildings
- Tiered 1–4 Globe rating system allows incremental improvement
- Third-party verified assessment adds credibility to sustainability claims
- Covers comprehensive sustainability areas: energy, water, indoor air quality, and more
- Supported by a network of over 1,700 certified Green Globes Professionals
Ideal For
This certification is best suited for property managers, building owners, and real estate professionals managing existing multifamily residential buildings who want to demonstrate environmental performance and sustainability. It is particularly valuable for those seeking a practical, cost-effective alternative to LEED that is recognized by federal agencies and applicable to North American markets.
Target Audiences
Relevant Roles
Industries
Alignment & Recognition
Accrediting Body
Recognized By
- Green Globes Standard
Scope
Overview
The Green Globes Multifamily for Existing Buildings Protocols is a certification program run by the Green Building Initiative (GBI). This program helps existing multifamily buildings improve their sustainability and efficiency. It started in Canada and has evolved to support North American buildings.
The certification process involves an online assessment, a third-party verification, and a performance rating. Buildings can earn between one to four Green Globes based on their environmental performance. GBI has over 1,700 certified professionals, known as Green Globes Professionals, who assist with the certification process.
Important clients include the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and various private real estate companies. The program emphasizes practical improvements, covering areas like energy use, water conservation, and indoor air quality. GBI's approach aims for significant, achievable gains rather than idealistic targets, making it accessible for many building managers. This program helps clients save on utility costs and improve tenant satisfaction.
Requirements & Assessment
Evidence Requirements
Applicants must complete an online self-assessment questionnaire covering energy, water, emissions, indoor environment, and site considerations. Supporting documentation must be submitted to verify claimed performance levels. A third-party Green Globes assessor then conducts a verification review, which may include a site visit, to validate the submitted documentation and confirm the building's sustainability performance before a Globe rating is awarded.
Prerequisites
Assessment Process
There is no traditional exam. The assessment process involves an online self-assessment questionnaire completed by the building team, followed by a documentation review and third-party on-site verification conducted by a licensed Green Globes assessor. The assessor evaluates submitted evidence against the Green Globes standard criteria across categories including energy, water, indoor environment, and site. A final Globe rating (1–4) is awarded based on the percentage of points achieved.
Renewal & Maintenance
Green Globes certifications are typically valid for three years, after which buildings must undergo recertification to maintain their rating. Recertification involves completing an updated assessment and third-party verification to confirm continued or improved environmental performance. Renewal fees apply and are generally similar to initial certification costs.
Continuing Education (CPE/CEU)
No formal CPE/CEU requirements are mandated for the building certification itself. Green Globes Professionals (GGPs) who assist with certifications are subject to their own continuing education requirements to maintain their professional credential.
Accountability Model
Impact & Outcomes
Employer Recognition
Consider Alternatives If...
If your building is pursuing international recognition or a globally prestigious green building credential, LEED or BREEAM may offer broader market recognition. Organizations seeking a certification focused solely on energy performance rather than whole-building sustainability may find more targeted alternatives more appropriate.
Alternative Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Certification
English
2004
Available
