Green Globes Multifamily for New Construction Protocols
Green Globes
Green Globes certifies sustainable new multi-family constructions.
Key Strengths
- Federally recognized by the U.S. federal government (GSA and USDA)
- Flexible, scalable rating system adaptable to diverse project types and budgets
- Third-party assessor-led process ensures credibility and objectivity
- Covers comprehensive sustainability areas: energy, water, indoor environment, and site
- More affordable and accessible than some competing green building certifications
- Recognized under the Energy Policy Act and applicable to federal procurement
Ideal For
This certification is best suited for real estate developers, architects, and builders working on new multifamily residential construction projects who want a flexible, cost-effective alternative to LEED. It is particularly valuable for those seeking federally recognized green building credentials for government-funded or GSA-related projects, or for teams working on projects with diverse budgets and sustainability goals.
Target Audiences
Relevant Roles
Industries
Alignment & Recognition
Accrediting Body
Recognized By
- Green Globes Standard
Building Scope
Overview
Green Globes Certification, offered by the Green Building Initiative (GBI), is a comprehensive and flexible green building guidance and assessment program that helps design, construct, and operate sustainable buildings. The protocol, including Green Globes Multifamily for New Construction, helps in evaluating new residential buildings on environmental performance. Since its inception, GBI aims to promote environmentally preferable building practices.
Green Globes covers critical areas like energy efficiency, water conservation, and indoor environment quality. Certified buildings gain recognition for their sustainability efforts. Professionals can attain certification to become experts in the Green Globes assessment process, ensuring quality and compliance.
Important adopters include various private sector clients and government agencies. Anecdotal success stories highlight improved building performance and stakeholder satisfaction. Overall, Green Globes offers a pragmatic, scalable approach to green building certification, making it accessible for a broader range of projects.
For further details, you can visit their official page: https://www.thegbi.org/green-globes-certification/
Requirements & Verification
Evidence Requirements
Applicants must complete the online Green Globes questionnaire documenting design and construction practices across all assessed categories. Supporting documentation — including energy models, specifications, drawings, and commissioning reports — must be submitted for third-party review. A licensed third-party assessor then conducts a site visit and documentation review to verify claims before a Globe rating is awarded.
Prerequisites
Assessment Process
The assessment process involves a licensed third-party Green Globes Assessor who reviews the project's completed online questionnaire and supporting documentation (energy models, drawings, specifications, commissioning reports). The assessor then conducts an on-site visit to verify documentation claims and evaluate actual construction practices. Following the site visit, the assessor submits a report to GBI, which awards a rating of 1 to 4 Globes based on the percentage of points achieved (35%–54% = 1 Globe, 55%–69% = 2 Globes, 70%–84% = 3 Globes, 85%–100% = 4 Globes).
Renewal & Compliance
Accountability Model
Impact & Outcomes
Employer Recognition
Consider Alternatives If...
Avoid if your project requires international recognition or is located outside North America, as Green Globes has limited global brand recognition compared to LEED. Also consider alternatives if your stakeholders or investors specifically require LEED certification, which carries broader market recognition in the private sector.
Alternative Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Certification
English
2004
