DEFINITION OF GREEN BUILDINGS
By the end of 2023, around 145 countries have announced or are considering a “net zero” emissions target, accounting for nearly 90% of global emissions. Vietnam’s goal is to reduce national greenhouse gas emissions by 43.5% by 2030 compared to the business-as-usual (BAU) scenario, with no new coal power projects, and to achieve “net zero” emissions by 2050.
In this context, Green Building, according to DECREE 15/2021/ND-CP on DETAILED REGULATIONS ON SOME CONTENTS OF PROJECT INVESTMENT CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT issued on March 3, 2021, Chapter I, Article 3, Section 6, is a construction work that is designed, built, and operated to meet criteria and standards for efficient energy use, resource conservation, ensuring comfort and the quality of the indoor living environment, and protecting the external environment.
BASIC CRITERIA
Green building standards are becoming more widespread and popular globally as a solution to the increasing negative human impact on the environment, such as global warming and climate change.
Green buildings must meet the following basic criteria:
- Consideration of environmental factors and quality of life during design, construction, and operation process.
- Utilization of alternative energy sources such as solar and wind power.
- Efficient use of energy, water, and other resources.
- Minimization of pollution and waste, with measures for effective recycling and reuse.
- Use of non-toxic and sustainable materials.
- Maintaining high indoor air quality.
- Design adaptability to environmental changes.
COMMON GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS
LOTUS
LOTUS is a green building certification system developed by the Vietnam Green Building Council (VGBC). LOTUS serves as a guiding standard and a goal-setting tool for creating environmentally friendly buildings that promote the health of occupants while maintaining lower operational costs.
LEED
LEED is a green building standard in the U.S., issued by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), and is currently the most widely recognized standard globally. It has been authorized for evaluating and certifying buildings beyond the U.S. due to its commercialization, and is widely accepted and used around the world.
EDGE
EDGE is seen as a boost for green buildings, as it is simpler to implement compared to LEED and LOTUS, with green criteria that align with business costs. With three assessment criteria focusing on water, energy, and materials, EDGE offers achievable targets and is therefore preferred by many investors.
SOLUTIONS TO ACHIEVE GREEN BUILDING CERTIFICATIONS
Installing electric vehicle charging stations
EBOOST provides electric vehicle charging solutions for employees, customers, and residents in the area to enhance infrastructure and support the growth of green building initiatives.
Save costs with solar energy
Stride makes installing solar power easier with flexible payment options for both residential and business customers.