For years, third-party certifications such as LEED in the US and BREEAM in the UK have been used to assess sustainability in design-build projects.
However, according to a recent article by JLL, these frameworks do not adequately address building operations and emissions. While buildings account for 40% of global emissions, only 27% come from construction; the rest comes from ongoing operations. As a result, there is an increasing focus on reducing energy usage and achieving net-zero emissions.
Traditionally, green building certification has been primarily focused on landlords. However, with more companies committing to net-zero carbon targets publicly and tenants taking responsibility for their own carbon footprint reduction strategies within their leased spaces. This shift has led to increased use of tools like CRREM (Carbon Risk Real Estate Monitor), Science-Based Targets’ Buildings Science-Based Target-Setting Guidance and Tool,NABERS (National Australian Built Environment Rating System), National Definition of Zero Emissions Building (US) & Net Zero Carbon Building Standard(UK).
Furthermore,the rise of local regulations focusing on building performance standards globally has also contributed towards this trend.
In response to this growing demand for improved sustainability measures beyond just major capital projects or developments,JLL along with Amazon,JPMorgan,and ProLogis have partnered with International Living Future Institute(ILFI)to develop a new certification program that goes beyond traditional green certifications offered by organizations like USGBC(United States Green Building Council)and BRE(Building Research Establishment).
