Green Globes Professional
Green Globes
Green Globes certifies eco-friendly buildings using practical standards.
Key Strengths
- Federally recognized — accepted by U.S. federal agencies including GSA and VA
- Practical, flexible rating system adaptable to diverse building types and budgets
- Online assessment platform makes the process accessible and cost-effective
- Strong foothold in government, healthcare, and institutional building sectors
- Supports both new construction and existing buildings
- Backed by the Green Building Initiative, an ANSI-accredited standards developer
Ideal For
Best suited for architects, engineers, sustainability consultants, and facility managers who work on commercial building projects and want to guide clients through the Green Globes certification process. Particularly valuable for professionals in the U.S. federal sector, healthcare, or higher education where Green Globes is recognized or preferred over other rating systems.
Target Audiences
Relevant Roles
Industries
Alignment & Recognition
Accrediting Body
Recognized By
- Green Globes Standard
Scope
Overview
Green Globes Certification is a program by the Green Building Initiative (GBI) designed to help buildings become more eco-friendly. It offers a flexible, online assessment for new constructions and existing buildings. The program began as a Canadian initiative in the 1990s and was adapted for the U.S. in 2004.
Green Globes focuses on areas like energy use, water conservation, and material selection. Buildings are rated on a 1,000-point scale and can earn between one and four Globes based on their performance. The program is recognized for being easy to use and cost-effective.
For individuals, there's the Green Globes Professional (GGP) certification, which trains experts to guide building projects through the certification process. Notable clients include the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Whole Foods Market.
Certified buildings have shown reduced energy costs and improved occupant satisfaction. The program is backed by partnerships with industry leaders and government agencies.
Requirements & Assessment
Evidence Requirements
Candidates must pass the GGP examination, which tests knowledge of the Green Globes rating system, its criteria, and the certification process. No formal portfolio submission is required, but candidates are expected to have familiarity with green building practices and the Green Globes assessment tool prior to sitting the exam.
Prerequisites
Assessment Process
The GGP exam is a computer-based, multiple-choice examination covering the Green Globes rating system, its assessment criteria, and the certification process for both new construction and existing buildings. The exam is administered online through a proctored testing platform. Candidates are advised to study the Green Globes reference guides and online assessment tools. Specific question count and passing score thresholds are set by GBI; candidates who do not pass may retake the exam after a waiting period.
Renewal & Maintenance
Accountability Model
Impact & Outcomes
Employer Recognition
Consider Alternatives If...
If you primarily work on projects requiring LEED certification, which has broader global recognition and a larger employer base, the GGP may offer limited additional value. Professionals focused on residential or international markets may find Green Globes' reach more limited compared to competing credentials.
Alternative Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Certification
English
2004
Online, Self-paced
Available
How to Use This Credential
Certification Details
Assessment
Proctoring
Verification
Structure
Governance
Fee Structure
Related Certifications
Green Globes Health and Wellness Distinction
Green Globes
Guiding Principles Compliance Professional
Green Globes
Green Globes Assessor
Green Globes
Green Globes Multifamily for New Construction Protocols
Green Globes
Green Globles for Exisiting Buildings
Green Globes
Green Globes Emerging Professional
Green Globes