Green Globles for Exisiting Buildings
Green Globes
Green Globes certifies existing buildings for sustainability.
Key Strengths
- Federally recognized by the U.S. government for use in federal buildings
- Flexible and practical — designed for real-world existing building operations
- On-site third-party assessor provides direct, actionable feedback
- Covers energy, water, indoor environment, emissions, and site management holistically
- More affordable and accessible than some competing green building certifications
- Recognized under USDA BioPreferred and other federal procurement programs
Ideal For
Best suited for building owners, facility managers, and property managers of existing commercial, institutional, or government buildings seeking a practical, cost-effective green building certification. Ideal for organizations that want a flexible, assessor-guided process with actionable feedback rather than a rigid prescriptive checklist.
Target Audiences
Relevant Roles
Industries
Alignment & Recognition
Accrediting Body
Recognized By
- Green Globes Standard
Building Scope
Overview
The Green Globes Certification for Existing Buildings is a program designed to help building owners improve and maintain sustainable practices. Developed by the Green Building Initiative (GBI), it originated as a simpler, user-friendly alternative to other green building certification systems. The program assesses numerous aspects like energy use, water conservation, indoor environment quality, and sustainable management practices.
Statistically, Green Globes is known for providing practical feedback through on-site assessments and online evaluations. Clients include various industries and governmental agencies, showcasing its flexibility.
Notable users are federal buildings and institutions, emphasizing its credibility. Product manufacturers can also get certifications, but the core focus remains on improving existing facilities rather than new constructions. This promotes long-term environmental responsibility, reducing operational costs while enhancing occupant well-being.
Requirements & Verification
Evidence Requirements
Applicants must complete an online self-assessment questionnaire covering energy, water, indoor environment, emissions, and site management. Supporting documentation — such as utility bills, maintenance records, and operational policies — must be submitted for third-party review. A qualified GBI-approved assessor then conducts an on-site visit to verify documentation and evaluate building performance firsthand before issuing a final certification score and report.
Prerequisites
Assessment Process
There is no written exam. Assessment involves a two-stage process: first, the building team completes a detailed online questionnaire covering all sustainability categories (energy, water, indoor environment, emissions, site); second, a GBI-approved third-party assessor conducts an on-site visit to verify documentation and observe building operations. The assessor scores the building on a 1,000-point scale, and a final report is issued. 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 for Existing Buildings certifications are valid for 3 years. To maintain certification, buildings must undergo a recertification assessment, including an updated online questionnaire and a new third-party on-site assessment. Recertification fees apply and are based on building size. Buildings must demonstrate continued or improved sustainability performance to retain their Globe rating.
Accountability Model
Impact & Outcomes
Employer Recognition
Consider Alternatives If...
Consider alternatives if your project requires LEED certification specifically, as some clients, tenants, or jurisdictions may mandate LEED by name. Also avoid if you are certifying a new construction project, as Green Globes for Existing Buildings is specifically scoped to operational buildings.
Alternative Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Certification
English
2004
Available
