Green Buildings
At the Kuwait Green Building Council, we believe that buildings and urban environments are catalysts for shaping our sustainable future. The spaces we create, occupy, and enhance are a testament to our commitment to sustainability. We recognize that sustainable buildings serve as the foundation for a thriving future where both people and the planet can thrive.
What Are Green Buildings?
Green buildings are structures designed, constructed, and operated to minimize or eliminate negative impacts on the environment and enhance the well-being of their occupants. These buildings integrate sustainable practices throughout their lifecycle, from design to demolition.
Key Features
Energy Efficiency
Green buildings utilize renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, maximize natural light through strategic design, and employ high-efficiency HVAC systems to reduce energy consumption.
Use of Sustainable Materials
Green buildings prioritize the use of recycled, renewable, and less toxic materials in construction and finishes, reducing the environmental impact and improving the health of building occupants.
Water Conservation
These structures incorporate water-saving fixtures like low-flow faucets and toilets, employ sustainable landscaping practices such as xeriscaping, and often include systems for rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling to minimize water use.
Waste Reduction
Green buildings implement comprehensive strategies for managing and reducing waste during construction and operation, including on-site recycling programs, composting, and the use of prefabricated and modular construction methods to minimize waste generation.
Improved Indoor Environmental Quality
Ensuring adequate ventilation, using low-emitting materials, and incorporating plants and natural elements, green buildings create healthier indoor environments that enhance occupant well-being and productivity.
Optimal Operational Efficacy
Green Buildings are designed with best engineering practices providing the building tenants with a human centric experience post occupancy while simultaneously ensuring minimum operational emissions and maintenance downtime.
Green Building Certifications
Green building certifications are essential for validating the sustainability and environmental performance of buildings. These certifications provide a framework for designing, constructing, and operating buildings that meet high standards of environmental and human health. Key certifications include:
EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies)
An innovation of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), EDGE is a green building certification system for emerging markets, focusing on energy efficiency, water savings, and material use.
WELL Building Standard
Focused on enhancing human health and well-being, the WELL certification addresses factors such as air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind. It is administered by the International WELL Building Institute.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED is one of the most widely recognized green building certification systems globally. It covers various aspects of sustainability, including energy efficiency, water conservation, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality.
GSAS (Global Sustainability Assessment System)
Developed by the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development (GORD), GSAS is a performance-based system that assesses the sustainability of buildings and infrastructure projects in the MENA region. It evaluates categories such as energy, water, indoor environment, cultural and economic value, and site impact.
BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method)
Originating in the UK, BREEAM is a comprehensive assessment method that evaluates the environmental performance of buildings in areas such as energy, health and well-being, innovation, land use, materials, management, pollution, transport, waste, and water.
Our Green Building Services
At Kuwait Green Building Council (KGBC), we offer comprehensive support to enhance the sustainability of buildings and projects throughout their various lifecycles. Our services include:
- Initial Assessment and Feedback: We conduct thorough initial assessments of new and existing buildings and projects, providing evidence-based feedback and recommendations on ways to improve sustainability. Our expert team identifies opportunities for energy efficiency, water conservation, the use of sustainable materials, and more, ensuring that every aspect of your building contributes to a greener future.
- Certification Support: For entities seeking green building certification, we offer specialized support to ensure projects meet their desired sustainability standards. Our team guides you through the certification process, and ensure that your projects are aligned with global best practices and sustainability criteria.
