Achieving green building status is no longer a niche pursuit. It is a critical strategy for increasing asset value, reducing operational costs, and attracting high-quality tenants. For any building owner looking to future-proof their asset, setting clear, actionable goals is the first and most crucial step. While many focus on major capital investments, some of the most impactful goals are operational and tied directly to the health of the building’s occupants.
Here are 5 essential green building goals every building owner should adopt:
- Achieve Radical Energy Efficiency.
This is the bedrock of green building. Beyond the obvious benefit of a reduced carbon footprint, achieving high energy efficiency dramatically cuts a building’s largest operational expense: utilities. Goals should include a commitment to high-performance HVAC systems, smart lighting, and building automation that adjusts based on occupancy and time of day.
- Optimize Water Management.
Water conservation is both an environmental and a financial goal. Implementing strategies like low-flow fixtures, high-efficiency appliances, and smart irrigation systems can lead to significant reductions in water usage and associated costs. A commitment to capturing and reusing rainwater is also a key marker of a truly green building.
- Prioritize Indoor Air Quality.
A building can’t be truly green if it’s harming its occupants. The goal here is to maintain optimal air quality by actively controlling pollutants and ensuring proper ventilation. This includes using low-emitting building materials and furniture, and establishing a clear plan for managing sources of CO2, VOCs, and particulate matter. IAQ has a direct impact on employee health, cognitive function, and productivity, making it a critical business metric.
- Use Sustainable, Healthy Materials.
The materials we use inside a building have a lasting impact on both the environment and human health. The goal is to move beyond mere aesthetics to select products that are recycled, renewable, and free of harmful chemicals. Look for certifications and transparency reports that document a material’s lifecycle and chemical composition. This aligns with the IAQ goal and demonstrates a deeper commitment to sustainability.
- Implement Continuous Monitoring for Performance.
This is the most crucial goal for long-term success. A one-time certification audit only gives you a snapshot. To truly manage a high-performance, green building, you need real-time data. By implementing a continuous monitoring system, such as a network of uHoo air quality monitors, you can track progress toward all your goals.
This allows you to verify that your HVAC system is performing as designed, that ventilation is adequate for the number of occupants, and that your material choices aren’t compromising air quality. The data from a system like uHoo is your proof of performance, providing valuable insights for operational efficiency, tenant satisfaction, and marketing.
By focusing on these 5 goals, you can not only achieve a green building certification but also create a more valuable, efficient, and healthy asset for the long term.