Why Green Certifications are Beneficial Long-Term

Sustainability in construction is more than just a trend—it’s the standard and beneficial. As the industry responds to growing climate and environmental concerns, certifications like LEED, EDGE, WELL and BERDE have become essential tools for building responsibly. These green certifications guide experts on how spaces are designed, built, and utilized—reducing environmental impact while creating healthier, more efficient environments for the people who live and work in them.

So what exactly do these certifications offer, and how can they benefit your property?  Let’s dive in.

What Are Green Building Certifications?

Green building certifications are third-party validation systems that assess and recognize a project’s sustainability and efficiency performance. They are designed to encourage best practices in energy use, water efficiency, indoor environmental quality, materials selection, and sustainable site development.

Here are a few of the most widely recognized:

• LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
  • Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED is one of the most globally recognized certifications. It evaluates buildings on sustainability metrics such as energy efficiency, carbon footprint, and indoor environmental quality.
• EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies)
  • Created by the International Finance Corporation, EDGE focuses on resource-efficient buildings, particularly in emerging markets. It promotes practical, cost-effective solutions for water, energy, and material efficiency.
• WELL Building Standard
  • While LEED focuses on the building’s environmental impact, WELL targets the health and wellness of the people inside. It addresses aspects like air and water quality, lighting, comfort, and mental well-being.
• BERDE and Other Local Certifications
  • Locally, certifications like the Philippines’ BERDE (Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence) also set sustainability standards based on the country’s unique environmental and social context.

Why Do These Certifications Matter?

1. Environmental Responsibility: Buildings are responsible for nearly 40% of global energy-related carbon emissions. Green certifications ensure that construction projects reduce their carbon footprint through smarter design, resource efficiency, and innovation.
2. Long-Term Cost Savings: Energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials lead to reduced operating costs. Certified buildings often consume significantly less energy and water, offering long-term financial benefits to owners and tenants.
3. Increased Property Value and Marketability: Green-certified properties are increasingly favored by investors, occupants, and buyers. Certification acts as a mark of quality and responsibility—making it easier to lease, sell, or finance projects.
4. Better Living and Working Spaces: Improved air quality, natural lighting, and sound design create healthier, more productive environments. WELL-certified buildings, in particular, are shown to improve occupant well-being and satisfaction.
5. Regulatory and Global Competitiveness: As environmental regulations become stricter, certified buildings stay ahead of compliance. Internationally, having a LEED or EDGE certification boosts credibility and competitiveness in global markets.

JCVA’s Role in Certification Success

At JCVA, we believe that sustainable construction isn’t just a goal—it’s our responsibility. From design to completion, we guide our clients through every step of the green building journey with tailored consultancy and project management services aimed at securing globally recognized certifications.

Our expertise in green developments—and active participation in the Philippine and U.S. Green Building Councils—allows us to provide forward-thinking strategies rooted in the latest sustainability standards. Whether you’re aiming for LEED, WELL, BERDE, or EDGE certification, JCVA ensures your project is aligned with the highest benchmarks in environmental responsibility.

We don’t see sustainability as just a box to check—it’s the foundation for building better businesses and better communities.

Green building certifications are more than plaques on a wall—they’re proof of commitment to a better future that benefits those in it too. They validate the hard work, innovation, and intention behind building something that serves not just the present, but generations to come.

As part of our mission to build better businesses, JCVA continues to empower clients with the tools, knowledge, and support to create impactful, sustainable spaces—one certified project at a time.

Ready to future-proof your project with sustainable certification? Contact us at technical@jcvassociates.ph or visit jcvassociates.ph to get started.