What is Edge Certification?
EDGE, short for “Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies,” is a green building certification system developed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) that helps design teams and project owners identify cost-effective ways to incorporate energy and water-saving options into new buildings, aiming for a minimum 20% reduction in energy, water, and embodied carbon
What are the benefits of edge certification?
- Global Recognition – Enhances project marketability and credibility.
- Financial Perks – Access to better financing, higher occupancy, and investor appeal.
- Resource Efficiency – Cuts energy, water, and material costs for long-term savings.
- Fast Certification – Streamlined process with minimal documentation.
- Stronger Branding – Positions projects as sustainable and future-ready.
- Green Finance Access – Meets global sustainability standards for funding.
- Eco-Friendly Impact – Reduces carbon footprint and promotes sustainability.
Levels of Edge Certification
EDGE certification is designed to recognize buildings that prioritize sustainability and efficiency. It has three levels, each reflecting a greater commitment to reducing energy use, water consumption, and carbon emissions. Here’s a quick breakdown of what each level means:
Level 1. EDGE Certified: Achieve at least 20% reductions in energy use, water consumption, and embodied energy in materials compared to a standard local building.
Level 2. EDGE Advanced (Zero Carbon Ready): Meet the EDGE Certified criteria with an additional requirement of at least 40% projected energy savings.
Level 3. EDGE Zero Carbon: Attain EDGE Advanced certification and demonstrate carbon neutrality through 100% renewable energy use—either on-site or off-site—or by purchasing verified carbon offsets.
What is the EDGE certification process?
Getting EDGE certified is a straightforward process designed to help projects achieve sustainability goals efficiently. Here’s how it works:
- Use the EDGE App – Start by entering your project details into the free EDGE App to assess and select energy- and resource-efficient measures.
- Register Your Project – Submit your application and pay the registration fee to officially begin the certification process.
- Hire an EDGE Auditor – Select an accredited Auditor to review your project at both design and construction stages.
- Submit Application & Pay Fees – Upload the required documents via the EDGE App, ensure accuracy, and pay the certification fee.
- Audits & Approval:
- Design Audit – The Auditor reviews your submitted plans. If approved, you receive a Preliminary EDGE Certificate.
- Site Audit – After construction, the Auditor verifies compliance, leading to the final EDGE Certificate.
- Get Certified – Once all reviews are complete, your project is certified as meeting EDGE standards, proving at least 20% savings in energy, water, and materials.
What is the crucial factor in EDGE Certification?
Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a crucial factor in the EDGE standard, ensuring that buildings provide healthier, more comfortable spaces for occupants. By integrating IAQ-focused measures, EDGE-certified buildings minimize pollutants, regulate airflow, and enhance overall well-being. Here’s how EDGE prioritizes IAQ:
- Acoustic Comfort – Reduces excessive noise through sound insulation and design standards, helping improve concentration and overall well-being.
- Ventilation – Requires buildings to use effective ventilation systems, whether mechanical or natural, to ensure a steady flow of fresh air, dilute pollutants, and lower harmful gas concentrations.
- Lighting Quality – Establishes guidelines for energy-efficient lighting that enhances visibility, reduces eye strain, and positively impacts mood and productivity.
- Temperature & Humidity Control – Ensures HVAC systems efficiently regulate temperature and humidity, preventing mold growth and maintaining a consistently comfortable indoor climate.
- Chemical & Pollutant Control – Promotes the use of low-emission materials, such as non-toxic paints and adhesives, while encouraging proper cleaning and maintenance to minimize indoor air pollution.
How uHoo Helps in Achieving EDGE Certificate
uHoo air sensors can significantly contribute to maintaining and improving indoor air quality in EDGE certified buildings. By providing real-time monitoring of critical parameters like PM2.5, VOCs, temperature, and humidity, uHoo sensors empower building managers to take proactive measures.
Early detection of potential issues, such as elevated pollutant levels or suboptimal temperature and humidity conditions, enables timely interventions, such as adjusting ventilation rates, optimizing HVAC systems, or implementing targeted cleaning protocols.
By integrating uHoo air sensors into EDGE certified buildings, facility managers can create healthier, more productive, and sustainable indoor environments. These advanced monitoring devices provide valuable insights that help optimize operations, reduce energy consumption, and enhance people’s well-being.
