Growing demand for green buildings across the world have been driven partly by companies believing that they improve profit, brand image and reputation. Building green is also a way for businesses to prepare for changes in legislation relating to environmental, social and governance issues, especially with the recently concluded COP26 (UN Climate Change Conference).
With the upheaval that the pandemic has caused, people’s health and how a space contributes to it has also become more critical in addition to its environmental impact. Employees and tenants are a company’s most important resources, investing in their health and safety is not only necessary but is good business as well.
Sustainable and healthy buildings and spaces are built differently than regular ones and must pass a rigid standard in order to be certified. JCVA are accredited consultants in WELL, LEED and BERDE. When planning or rethinking your spaces, our professionals can guide you to ensure that your projects are faithful to their standards and criteria and therefore attain their much desired certification.
WELL
Developed by International Well Building Institute, WELL Building Standard not only focus on health but also a person’s wellbeing. It aims “to deliver more thoughtful and intentional spaces that enhance human health and well-being”. WELL is organized into seven concepts which all have design implications: Air, Water, Nourishment, Light, Fitness, Comfort, and Mind. Being performance-based, buildings must also pass a quality test for each concept.
LEED
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design is a certification developed by the Green Building Council. LEED provides a “framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings”. Its requirements are organized into seven categories: Innovation, Indoor Environmental Quality, Materials and Resources, Location and Transportation, Sustainable Sites, Energy and Atmosphere, and Water Efficiency.