BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Suggested citation: World Bank. Building Code Checklist for Fire Safety (English). Washington, D.C. : World Bank Group. Credits: The World Bank Group Cover image: Milan, Italy, panoramic view of the Park Biblioteca degli Alberi (Library of Trees) with the Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) towers on the left. © Davide Fiammenghi Back cover image: Construction site in Hurghada, Egypt, © OlyaSolodenko This document is the property of the World Bank. It is permissible to copy and use any of the material in this report provided that the source is appropriately acknowledged. Further information is available from: © The World Bank 2023 Adaptations—If you create an adaptation of this work, please add the following disclaimer along with the attribution: This is an adaptation of an original work by The World Bank. 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RIGHTS AND PERMISSIONS: The material in this work is subject to copyright. Because The World Bank encourages dissemination of its knowledge, this work may be reproduced, in whole or in part, for noncommercial purposes as long as full attribution to this work is given. Graphic design: Miki Fernández/ULTRA designs, Inc. Table of Contents Acknowledgements 5 List of Acronyms 6 1. Overview 8 2. Introduction 10 3. Objective 17 4. Guidance 19 5. Key Green Building Components in Building Regulations 25 6. Building Code Checklist for Green Building 28 Appendix: Methodology of Checklist Development 45 Singapore. Photo: © Miki Fernández Acknowledgements This tool was developed by Vasudevan Kadalayil (Consultant), under the guidance of Keiko Sakoda (Senior Disaster Risk Management Specialist, World Bank) and Ana Campos Garcia (Lead Disaster Risk Management Specialist, World Bank). Kristal Peters (Consultant) and Kabeer Dawani (Consultant) provided overall coordination of tool production. The team is grateful for valuable technical input and advice provided by global experts Andrés Martinez, Jatmika Adi Suryabrata, Smita Chandra, and Vazgen Sedrakyan. Very helpful peer review comments are provided from Jasneet Singh (Lead Energy Specialist), Henrik Rytter Jensen (Senior Energy Specialist, ESMAP), Ommid Saberi (Senior Industry Specialist, International Finance Corporation Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies program), Apoorva Narayan Shenvi (Climate Change Specialist), Katherine Coates (Consultant), and Julia Ratcliffe (Consultant). We thank the World Bank Global Corporate Solutions Translation and Interpretation Services for editorial assistance and Miki Fernández for graphic design. 5 6 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS List of Acronyms AAC Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (type of masonry block) ANSI American National Standards Institute ASHRAE American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials BEM Building Energy Modelling (software) BMS Building Management System BRCA Building Regulatory Capacity Assessment BREEAM Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method BRR Building Regulation for Resilience BRTS Bus Rapid Transit System CO2 Carbon dioxide DGU Double Glazed Unit DRM Disaster Risk Management DtS Deemed-to-Satisfy EDGE Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EPI Energy Performance Index ETP Effluent Treatment Plant EUI Energy Use Intensity GFDRR Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery GGBS Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag GHG Green House Gases GRIHA Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment HSA Horizontal Shading Angle HVAC Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning IBQC International Building Quality Centre ICC International Code Council IES Integrated Environmental Solutions IGBC Indian Green Building Council IgCC International Green Construction Code IPTU Imposto Predial e Territorial Urbano (Property and Urban Land Tax) LEED Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design MLIT Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism in Japan NDC Nationally Determined Contributions NZE Net Zero Energy OTTV Overall Thermal Transfer Value PFC Power Factor Correctors PPC Pozzolanic Portland Cement PUF Poly-urethane Foam PV Photovoltaic RCC Reinforced Cement Concrete RE Renewable Energy SDG Sustainable Development Goal SHGC Solar Heat Gain Coefficient STP Sewage Treatment Plant SWH Solar Water Heaters USGBC United States Green Building Council VM Verification Method VOC Volatile Organic Compound VSA Vertical Shading Angle WWR Window to Wall Ratio 7 8 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS 1.Overview Rapid urbanization and population growth are The World Bank’s Disaster Risk Management driving the construction of new buildings, with (DRM) portfolio support countries to design global building stocks expected to double in and implement diversified investments for risk the next 15 to 20 years.1 While such trends will reduction and preparedness. Among various represent significant development advances approaches, improving the building regulatory and offer economic growth opportunities, framework and implementation capacity proves concern remains regarding the resilience to be one of the most cost-effective means and safety of new and aging building stocks, of reducing underlying climate and disaster increases in energy and water consumption, risks2 in combination with investments for and accessibility of the existing and evolving physical structural improvements/retrofits. built environment and infrastructure that In this context, the Global Facility for support the living environment and lifestyle. Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR)’s Furthermore, new developments will increase global line of work (BRR) aims to promote exposure to climate and disaster risks because resilient, green, healthy, and inclusive built of the evolving impact of climate change environments through enhanced regulatory depending on location and governing standards frameworks and implementation capacities. to be followed. Additional vulnerability can be compounded in unregulated and informal The BRR offers technical support and advisory settlements where buildings are constructed services for governments by analyzing the in a high-density manner on, risky sites using existing regulatory framework and capacity substandard building materials and lack of of target countries utilizing the Building safe design and construction practices. The Regulatory Capacity Assessment (BRCA) combination of urbanization and climate methodology, which identifies key issues and change poses significant challenges for targeted recommendations for countries for countries and cities to form a comprehensive priority actions, potentially as part of the DRM set of regulatory and policy instruments to investments financed by the World Bank or any guide a resilient, sustainable, and accessible other financial sources. built environment. 1 Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction. 2022. “Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction.” https://globalabc.org/sites/default/files/2023-03/2022%20Global%20Status%20Report%20for%20 Buildings%20and%20Construction_1.pdf. 2 Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery. 2016. “Building Regulation for Resilience: Managing Risks for Safer Cities.” https://www.gfdrr.org/en/publication/building-regulation-resilience-0. Chapter 1 As the BRR expands, demand has grown for by governments) assess their own codes technical advice on details of building codes against consolidated checklists referring to based on global knowledge and practice. global good examples. The methodology has Responding to such requests, the BRR has been developed for subject matter experts developed a set of checklists that support in each discipline with basic engineering and countries in assessing the comprehensiveness architectural backgrounds. Although each and depth of their building code provisions, document presents a methodology, users focusing on four major elements: structural can contact the Global Facility for Disaster resilience, fire safety, green buildings, Reduction and Recovery for worksheets for and universal accessibility. This will help convenient use. This document presents a countries (or professionals commissioned checklist for green buildings. Figure 1. Objectives of different BRR tools Building Code Checklists: Building Act A set of tools to review provisions of building code Building Code focusing on four major topics Building Regulatory Objective, Functional Requirements, structural Capacity Assessment Legislation resilience Performance Criteria (BRCA): (Mandatory) A tool to reviews fire safety regulatory framework overall Alternative Solutions Verification Acceptable green Methods Solutions Demonstrate buildings Compliance with Performance Criteria universal Cited Information designs Guidance Information Source: Figure adapted and modified from the original figure by Building and maintaining New Zealand’s homes and buildings. 9 2. Introduction Rapid urbanization in developing countries, Globally, buildings account for 37% of energy with Africa and Asia expected to account for and process-related carbon dioxide (CO2) 90% of the projected urban population growth emissions (Figure 2).3 With increasing by 2050, will increase demand for buildings urbanization and population growth, demand and spur construction in those countries. An for energy will continue to increase faster than estimated 1 billion new dwelling units will the supply of renewable energy. This means be constructed in low- and middle-income that increasing the efficiency of current energy countries by 2050, which is expected to double use is critical to climate change mitigation the building stock over the next 15 to 20 years. efforts while also meeting the development Although these trends represent significant requirement of growing economies. Regulations development advances and offer economic that can increase the energy efficiency of growth opportunities in developing countries, buildings and reduce the carbon footprint of there is concern regarding increased energy buildings are thus vital to reducing greenhouse and water consumption in the evolving urban gas (GHG) emissions and to achieving the Paris spaces, including the built environment and Agreement’s goal of keeping the increase in infrastructure that support living environments average global temperature below 2°C. and lifestyles. New developments may also create a more resource-intensive built Building regulations cover a broad set of environment if they are designed without using disciplines, including structural safety; fire energy- and water-efficiency approaches. safety; electrical and plumbing design; and 3 UN Environment Programme and Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction. 2022 Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction (https://globalabc.org/our-work/tracking-progress-global-status-report). 10 Chapter 2 more recently, sustainable or green building and operation while also creating positive regulations. Resource efficiency of the built impacts and that help preserve natural environment is a relatively new concept for resources and improve quality of life. The emerging markets, where the clear benefits council identifies several features that can of green buildings are not widely shared and make a building green, including efficient use acknowledged. Green building regulations of energy, water, and other resources; use of are an important part of climate resilience renewable energy sources such as solar; use of and sustainability of the built environment. measures to reduce pollution and waste and The aim of a green building is to consume enable re-use and recycling; good indoor air as few resources as possible while providing quality; consideration of occupants’ quality of comfort for occupants. Decreasing resource life during design, construction, and operation; consumption will reduce GHG emissions use of nontoxic, ethical, sustainable materials; caused due to building construction and use. consideration of the environment during design, construction, and operation; and a The definition of green buildings can vary, design that enables adaptation to a changing but the World Green Building Council defines environment. Residential, office, educational, them as buildings that reduce or eliminate health care, institutional, or any other type of negative impacts on the climate and natural structure can be a green building, provided it environment during their design, construction, includes these features. Figure 2. Resource Use throughout Building Lifetime Material Construction Building Design Process​ End of Life Manufacture Process Operations • Embodied energy​ • Energy efficient • Energy and • Energy use​ • Recycling​ – Extraction​ design​ water use during • Water use • Reuse​ – Manufacture​ • Water efficient construction • Landfill – Transportation design​ • Material and cost saving through design 2. INTRODUCTION 11 12 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Regulations and green building rating systems Built Environment Sector as encourage or mandate use of low-embodied- Green House Gas (GHG) Emitter energy materials. Energy use in buildings Buildings use energy and are GHG emitters is primarily for space cooling and heating, lighting, pumps, fans, and other equipment. throughout their lifecycle. The energy use Most of a building’s energy use occurs during of buildings includes the manufacture of the its operational lifetime, so the benefits of green materials used during construction, building buildings are best realized when the total cost design, the construction process, how the of construction, operation, and maintenance building is operated, and its end of life and how is analyzed, not construction costs alone. it is disposed of (Figure 3). Consumption of A building that does not incorporate green energy in buildings depends on each of these, building principles in its design will remain and various factors, such as design quality and resource inefficient throughout its minimum human comfort (e.g., temperature, lighting, and 50-year lifespan. With global warming, cooling water availability), can affect it. loads on buildings will continue to increase, which will increase energy use. It is useful to divide GHG emissions from the building lifecycle into two categories: Global Commitments for (i) embodied energy of building materials and (ii) energy use in buildings during their Greening the Built Environment operational lifetime. Embodied energy refers Green buildings also play an important role in to the energy used for raw material extraction, achieving global development commitments, manufacturing, processing, and transportation. including the Sustainable Development Goals Figure 3. Global Share of Buildings and Construction Operational and Process CO2 Emissions, 2021 Other Residential (direct) 8% 6% Residential (indirect) Transport 11 % 22 % Non-residential (direct) 3% Other industry 30 % Non-residential (indirect) 8% Buildings construction Other building and industry - Concrete, construction industry aluminum and steel 6% 6% Estimated emissions for bricks and glass ̴3 % (Source: UN Environment Programme and Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction. 2022 Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction) Chapter 2 (SDGs)4 established by the United Nations. For Determined Contributions (NDCs), which example, promoting good health and well-being are national plans with targets for GHG (SDG3), providing affordable and clean energy emissions.5 According to the 2022 Global Status (SDG7), supporting decent work and economic Report for Buildings and Construction,6 158 growth (SDG8), fostering industrial innovation countries included buildings in their NDCs and infrastructure (SDG9), creating sustainable in 2021, which is a large increase from the 88 cities and communities (SDG11), encouraging countries that did so in 2015, highlighting the responsible consumption and production growing importance of this sector in climate (SDG12), taking climate action (SDG13), change mitigation efforts; 118 countries also promoting life on land (SDG15), and fostering incorporated energy efficiency of buildings partnerships to achieve these goals (SDG17). as a component of their strategy for reducing emissions. Map 1 shows the countries that have Many countries have included specific actions included this sector in their NDCs and those with respect to buildings in their Nationally that have yet to do so. Map 1. Countries with Mention of Buildings in Their Nationally Determined Contributions This map was produced by the Cartography Unit of the World Bank n Adaptation n Energy efficiency n Extensive detail n Limited reference Group. The boundaries, colors, denominations and any other infor- mation shown on this map do not imply, on the part of the World to buildings Bank Group, any judgement on the legal status of any territory, or any endorsement or acceptance of such boundaries. n No known NDC n No mention Building codes Increased detail in NDC update Further detail given in Fourth Biennial Report (spot color corresponds to mention category above) Source: Adapted from original image by United Nations Environment Program. 2022. 2022 Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction. 4 https://sdgs.un.org/goals 5 An NDC is a national plan that is not legally binding that outlines measures to mitigate climate change, including targets for reducing GHG emissions. 6 https://www.unep.org/resources/publication/2022-global-status-report-buildings-and-construction 2. INTRODUCTION 13 14 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Despite growing recognition in NDCs of the introduced in all regions by 2030, and that most importance of buildings, implementation existing buildings be retrofitted by 2050. of building energy codes must accompany the level of ambition in these targets. This Four fundamental components work in tandem report emphasizes the need for national and to create an enabling environment for a green subnational governments to create compulsory built environment: (1) green building codes building energy codes and establish a timeline and regulations under a legislative framework; for building codes and standards to attain net- (2) monitoring and control mechanism of zero status so that the Paris Agreement targets the regulatory implementation; (3) market can be met. mechanisms to invest in a green built environment, including green building certification; and (4) GHG Reductions in the Built knowledge dissemination and capacity building for industry professionals (Figure 4). Environment GHG reductions from the building sector can be achieved primarily through two methods: (i) Figure 4. Factors that Contribute to building new structures using green building a Green Built Environment principles, and (ii) systematically retrofitting existing buildings. As shown above, many ➊ Regulation ➌ Market countries are promoting green buildings as part of their long-term decarbonization plans Market to meet their NDCs. These countries must Green building codes mechanisms and regulations (e.g. green building simultaneously build new buildings with low certification) GHG footprints and retrofit existing building stock to be able to meet their emission targets. It is expected that existing building stock ➋ Control ➍ Capacity will account for approximately two-thirds of total building stock in 2050,7 making it vital to Knowledge Monitoring and retrofit these buildings to reduce their carbon dissemination and control mechanism capacity building footprint. Similarly, all new construction must have net-zero emissions. The International Energy Agency’s (IEA) report, Net Zero by 2050—A Roadmap for the Global Energy Green building codes are sets of mandatory Sector,8 recommends that more than 85% regulations and voluntary provisions that of buildings comply with zero-carbon-ready establish minimum standards for energy building energy codes by 2050, which can be efficiency, water conservation, and other done by establishing mandatory zero-carbon- sustainability measures in new construction ready building energy codes for all new buildings and major renovations. National and local 7 Climate Bonds Initiative. “Aligning Buildings with the Paris Climate Agreement: Insights and Developments from the Green Bond Market.” 8 https://iea.blob.core.windows.net/assets/deebef5d-0c34-4539-9d0c-10b13d840027/NetZeroby2050- ARoadmapfortheGlobalEnergySector_CORR.pdf. Chapter 2 governments develop these codes, which are demonstrate exemplary cases. Green building designed to ensure that all new buildings certification is usually voluntary and provides meet a minimum level of environmental additional recognition for buildings that exceed performance. Green building regulations are minimum standards. Despite being voluntary, designed to cover most buildings and most green building certification can encourage types of buildings, ensuring a significant impact a green built environment by stimulating on energy and water efficiency. the market to promote green buildings and demonstrate best practices. A monitoring and control mechanism of implementation of the legislative framework Green building codes and green building is usually considered to be an accountability labeling and certification mechanisms work mechanism to facilitate compliance. To in tandem. Although codes and regulations support functioning control mechanism, a set minimum standards and have a greater building asset database and a methodology influence on emissions reductions for the and mechanism of building energy audits overall built environment as a bottom- play important roles in recording a building’s up approach, green building labeling and performance on water and energy efficiency. certification stimulate top-tier investors and building owners in investing more in To connect the regulatory framework and green buildings. Figure 5 shows how these investments in green buildings, there are green two mechanisms work together for different building labeling systems and green building segments of the market. certification systems. In some countries, these are part of a regulatory system that the government manages; in other countries, it Figure 5. Green Building Market - Roles of Green Building is a voluntary program that the private sector Regulations and Green Building Certification Systems leads that provides third-party verification of sustainability features. Green building GREEN BUILDING CODES OR REGULATIONS 100% certification programs such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)9 certification systems Green building and Building Research Establishment Number of buildings Environmental Assessment Methodology (BREEAM)10 provide rating systems that assess a building’s performance in areas such as energy efficiency, water conservation, and indoor air quality. These certification systems are often aimed at the upper end of the market and incorporate cutting-edge practices to 0% Complexity of Green Measures Low High 9 https://www.usgbc.org/leed 10 https://bregroup.com/products/breeam/ 2. INTRODUCTION 15 16 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Capacity building is also critical in transforming – Grants and subsidies: Governments can markets by disseminating knowledge and foster provide grants or subsidies to offset capacity to design buildings with green building costs associated with green building solutions. Training programs must be provided projects. These can cover expenses for professionals involved in the building related to energy-efficient equipment, industry (e.g., architects, engineers, energy renewable energy installations, or auditors, developers) to keep them up to date sustainable design and construction. on global best practices. • Higher floor space index: Authorities may permit a higher floor space index, which Encouraging Investment in Green allows a greater allowable built-up area for a Buildings given plot of land. In addition to regulatory framework, green • Lower interest rates: Banks may offer lower buildings are also being promoted using mortgage rates, which allows property incentive policies. These incentives may owners to save money or increase their include: budget. Examples of incentives for green building • Expedited approvals: Government agencies include one used in Pune, India, where the may offer a fast-track process for obtaining municipal corporation provides a 5% to 15% building permits for green-rated projects, rebate on property tax for Indian Green which would allow construction to start Building Code/Green Rating for Integrated more quickly. Habitat Assessment–certified buildings and • Financial incentives: Governments may a 10% to 50% rebate on building license provide tax reductions and grants or application fees, and one in Salvador, Brazil, subsidies. where a discount of up to 10% on the property and urban land tax is given for buildings that – Tax reductions: Governments may install solar photovoltaic panels. Depending on provide property tax rebates for a the country context, other mechanisms may be period of time after a property is developed to encourage adoption of sustainable occupied or rebates on stamp duties building practices. when transferring ownership of such properties. 3. Objective The Building Code Checklist for Green context, energy efficiency, water efficiency, Buildings is designed to assist subject matter building materials, construction measures, experts in the detailed review of green building occupant health and comfort, and solid waste provisions and other regulations. management. How these aspects are addressed can vary widely; they may all be contained in This checklist facilitates a robust approach to one regulation (e.g., the building regulation) reviewing green building provisions in building or spread across multiple regulations (e.g., regulations by providing a list of fundamental building and urban planning regulations). The green building components of building regulatory provisions may be highly detailed regulations, a systematic approach to reviewing specifications (prescriptive) that are largely green building provisions in regulations, and self-contained in the building regulation, or examples of how green building provisions they may be function based, with high-level are addressed within a range of exemplary objectives in the building regulation along with building regulatory systems. Although this reference to standards and guidelines to be checklist can be applied without expertise followed for detailed design. In some cases, and experience in green building regulations the regulations may reflect a combination of or design, such expertise and experience are prescriptive and function-based approaches. valuable in navigating some of the complexities of codifying green building provisions. Although green building codes and regulations are an important step in reducing a country’s The scope of green building provisions GHG emissions, in many developing countries, can be broad, including aspects of site and they are at a nascent stage, and there is a 17 18 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS need to help countries create effective green and contents and identify opportunities for building regulations. A critical step in aiding enhancement; and (ii) to provide a reference agencies involved in this sphere is providing a for critical contents of a green building code reference list of essential elements for a green or regulation based on global examples. The building code. This list could be a reference tool is designed for building professionals with for authorities developing regulations or a lens green building specialization who are tasked through which to analyze green building codes with analyzing the green building code to use that have been implemented or are in the draft and can be used as a checklist for those who stage. are developing green building codes for specific countries or comparing a code with other The aims of this tool are twofold: (i) to global examples. understand current green building code scope 4. Guidance: How to Use the Building Code Checklist for Green Building When reviewing regulations for green national legislation and regulatory models, building components, it is helpful to follow meaning that building regulations will be unique a systematic approach that considers the to the country for which they are developed, regulatory provisions in a stepwise manner. the provisions may be split between different The review should account for the regulatory regulations, and different terminology may be and market capacity of the jurisdiction under used in different countries. review. Ultimately, it requires a combination of a robust building regulatory system and Factors for consideration when initiating a adequate regulatory and market capacity for the review include government structure (e.g., regulatory system to be most effective. Figure 6 centralized national system, federal system), illustrates steps to take as part of a systematic the government ministry(ies) or department(s) review. with responsibility for green building legislation and regulations, the legislative structure, and How and Where Green Building the model used for development of the green Components Are Incorporated building (if any). Specific questions include: into Regulations • Are building regulations and green building Although robust building regulations incorporate regulations under the purview of the same the green building components identified above, ministry? there is not typically a one-to-one relationship • Do building regulations address all green between the defined components and the building components of buildings, or are provisions within the regulations because the some provisions addressed under other structure of building regulation derives from regulations? 19 20 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS • Does other legislation or regulation contain • Are building (and green building) requirements relevant to green building regulations applied uniformly across the provisions in buildings (e.g., electricity country (a national system), by state or infrastructure, water infrastructure, territory (a federal system), or another way? planning and zoning, hazardous materials • What is (are) the source(s) of reference regulation) and electrical and mechanical standards for such things as materials installations in buildings? and system design and installation (e.g., national Bureau of Standards, International • Is the building regulatory framework Organization for Standardization)? (approach) functional (performance based) or prescriptive? Depending on the answers, a comprehensive review of green building components in • If the regulatory framework is functional regulations may require a review of documents or performance based, are associated associated with several government ministries, compliance standards clearly outlined to agencies, and private sector entities (especially achieve functional or performance goals? for standards). Almere, The Netherlands. Photo: © DutchScenery 21 22 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Figure 6. Steps to Take as Part of a Systematic Review ➊ ➋ ➌ Understand overall Identify green Undertake a systematic regulatory framework building–related review regulations and Identify relevant ministries, Look for provisions that address legislation, and regulations chapters each fundamental green building with bearing on green building, Identify which regulations (e.g., component and subcomponent including planning and zoning, planning; building; electrical; according to the checklist (see water infrastructure, electrical plumbing; heating, ventilation, and Chapter 6), and assess the and gas utilities, building and air conditioning) contain relevant adequacy of the regulatory construction, and fire. chapters or sections on the seven language, including the level of fundamental green building detail provided, to ensure proper components and subcomponents interpretation and execution of (Figure 8) for buildings and where the regulatory requirement and to these chapters or sections are refer to standards or guidelines located. that provide the necessary level of detail. • Green building provisions may have their own chapter but are • Provisions may be written more typically dispersed across in functional language, as electrical, mechanical, plumbing, prescriptive-based requirements, structural, and building services or a combination. chapters or sections. • The adequacy of the regulatory language will depend on several • Building use and occupancy classifications may be located factors, including: i) the level of with structural provisions, in their detail provided and the clarity own chapter or section, or both. of the stated provisions; ii) the extent to which reference standards are cited; iii) the uniformity of and compatibility between the reference standards; iv) the extent to which nonmandatory guidance is included and cited, and v) the uniformity of and compatibility between the guidance. Chapter 4 ➍ ➎ ➏ Assess provisions in Assess interface between Complete checklist and a country context green building regulations reporting and other regulations Consider the regulatory and market Summarize findings based on capacity required to interpret and Review the interface between completed checklist. The summary act upon the regulatory provisions green building-related and other should be presented to highlight in a manner that can be expected sections of building and relevant identified challenges, opportunities to achieve the green building regulations (e.g., planning and for enhancement, and key objectives for buildings that zoning, structural, mechanical, recommendations. comply with the regulations. electrical, plumbing) as necessary and appropriate. • Consideration may be given to the market’s capacity to work • Coordination with mechanical, with a regulatory document that electrical, plumbing, and urban is significantly function based planning is often required. and lacks adequate, consistent reference to accepted standards • Coordination with structural may and guidance: Who will be using be needed regulations? What are their educational backgrounds? • Consideration may also be given to the testing, approval, and accreditation systems for materials, products, and systems. 4. GUIDANCE: HOW TO USE THE BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDING 23 24 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS In all regulatory structures, it is essential Structure of Building Regulatory that the standards be cited as uniformly and Framework consistently as possible to help ensure that: A stylized structure of a building regulatory • Potential inconsistencies that may arise from framework is shown in Figure 7, although mixing incompatible standards are minimized. every regulatory framework and building regulation system will be structured slightly • Potential inconsistencies that may differently. The structure will largely depend arise from lack of providing a reference on the legislative structure used in a country standard for each regulated area (e.g., and the model used to develop the building energy efficiency, water efficiency, regulation (if any). Accordingly, it is difficult building materials, construction measures, to pre-identify precisely where to look in any occupational health and comfort, solid building regulation, green building regulation, waste management) are minimized. Failing or set of building and other regulations to find to provide standards leaves all decisions references to green building provisions. to the market, which could result in wide- ranging variation. (For example, failing to cite a standard for installation of air conditioners or water faucets could create Figure 7. Typical Structure of Building Regulatory problems for local authorities regarding Framework enforcement and lead to inconsistency in energy or water efficiency in buildings.) • Reference standards are aligned with all Building Act aspects of building regulatory system capacity, including product testing, Building Code approval, and market surveillance. (For Objective, Functional Requirements, Legislation example, it would create challenges if a Performance Criteria (Mandatory) U.S. test standard were cited, but there were no test facilities that could test to that standard, or materials that comply with the Alternative Solutions Verification Acceptable standard were unavailable in the market.) Methods Solutions Demonstrate Compliance with Chapter 5 provides basic knowledge on seven Performance Criteria fundamental green building components for Cited Information the built environment. Users of this tool who are green building experts and already Guidance familiar with key concepts in green building components in building regulations can Information skip the following section ‘Key Concepts in Green Building Components in Building Regulations’ and proceed to ‘Checklist for Source: Figure adapted and modified from the original figure by Building and maintaining New Zealand’s homes and buildings. the Review of Green Building Provisions in Building Regulations’. 5. Key Green Building Components in Building Regulations The tool builds on seven fundamental green least amount of energy, for example by building components in building (and other) maximizing the availability of natural light. regulations, along with a more detailed set This is an example of a passive measure. of subcomponents (Figure 8). These seven Active measures, such as lighting; heating, fundamental components were distilled from ventilation, and air conditioning systems; a comparative review of green building codes and elevators, must also be considered. of 11 countries conducted as part of this tool Energy-efficient technology is available that development (Appendix A). This review found consumes less energy but provides the same that building regulations (and sometimes performance. green building regulations or a combination of both) in most countries include provisions • Water-efficiency: Water is a necessary and requirements associated with the following resource for the survival of all lifeforms. seven fundamental green building components. Water efficiency starts with reducing demand for water by increasing the • Site and context: The context of the efficiency of equipment. Supply must also building, its surroundings, and the effect be addressed, such as maximizing rainwater that the building has on its surroundings harvesting and using recycled and treated are the starting points for implementing water. sustainability measures. • Building materials: Building material • Energy-efficiency: Because building production is another major source of energy use directly affects GHG emissions, energy use. The energy used to produce this is a critical area of intervention. A building materials is called embodied building must be designed to use the energy. The goal is to use building materials 25 26 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS that have low embodied energy. Using Although there are many green building recycled materials is another way to reduce guidance documents that address the the energy footprint of building materials. concepts embodied in these components (e.g., International Code Council 2012 • Construction: Controlling air, water, International Green Construction Code and noise pollution arising during construction and managing and disposing of (IgCC),; American National Standards construction-related debris are crucial for Institute (ANSI)/American Society of Heating, the environment. Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)/U.S. Green Building Council ()/ • Occupant health and comfort: The health Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES) and comfort of occupants are intrinsically Standard 189.1-2011: Standard for the Design connected to building design. of High-Performance Green Buildings Except • Solid waste management: Solid waste Low-Rise Residential Buildings; International management must be addressed during Code Council 700-2012: 2012 National Green design and operation of the building. Building Standard (ICC 700); and U.S. Green Figure 8. Fundamental Green Building Components and Subcomponents Green building measures Occupant ➐ Site and Energy Water Building Solid waste Construction safety, health, context efficiency efficiency materials management and comfort 5.1 1.1 Target 2.1 Demand- 3.1 Demand- 4.1 Recycled 7.1 Construction 6.1 Indoor setting and side side building Segregation pollution air quality project team measures measures materials of waste control 4.2 Low 5.2 1.2 Ecology 2.2 Supply- 3.2 Supply- 6.2 Indoor embodied Construction and side side sensory energy waste environment measures measures comfort buildings management 1.3 Building 2.3 Knowledge 3.3 Knowledge and and behavior and behavior transport management management Chapter Chapter 5 5 Building Council Leadership in Energy and A robust, comprehensive building (and other) Environmental Design (LEED®), none of these regulatory framework should address each align specifically with the typical structure of of the seven fundamental components, but building regulations. Moreover, the terminology the extent to which they are implemented and definitions differ between these will depend on the building profile, energy documents. As such, although these are useful and water efficiency objectives, and the guidance documents for green building analysis jurisdiction’s regulatory capacity. Any or all and design, they do not provide guidance for a of these factors, along with consideration of review of regulatory provisions. risk-benefit-cost balancing, may influence the extent of implementation of each of Reviewing regulations can be a complex task these components. In other words, there because green building–related items may may be trade-offs associated with various be regulated in multiple places. For example, considerations, including area, height, regulations for electrical installations, electric construction materials used for most buildings utilities, water supply services, planning, the availability of sunlight, capacity of the design environment, and occupational health and community, and cost of implementation. safety may be housed in different departments. 5. KEY GREEN BUILDING COMPONENTS IN BUILDING REGULATIONS 27 6. Building Code Checklist for Green Building Table 1 is a checklist to help review green country of focus. Some of the details associated building provisions in building regulations with the green building principles, features, based on the green building components and systems may be located in mandatory or overviewed above. Specific guidance for voluntary guidance or referenced standards. assessing regulatory provisions is not possible because all regulatory provisions are contextual In addition to technical contents covered to the regulatory and legislative structures and in Table 1, there are some related factors regulatory capacity of a country, and in many that may not fit simply into the category of cases, there is more than a single approach green building component (e.g., building use, to meeting green building objectives in a occupancy groups), are coordination issues, or building regulation. The reviewer is expected are in related legislation (e.g., utilities). Various to have sufficient knowledge to apply the items of concern such as these are overviewed following guidance to undertake an appropriate in Table 2. If a user is new to a country of review. The primary components and major study, Table 2 could be a good starting point subcomponents are color-coded to align to understanding the country context before with Figure 8. Fundamental Green Building reviewing a code using Table 1. Components and Subcomponents. Although Table 1 is extensive, it is not necessarily exhaustive. Also, as noted previously, not all principles, features, and systems may be required or appropriate in the 28 Chapter 6 Table 1. Checklist for for Review of Green Building Provisions in Building Regulations Topic Relevance Diagnostic questions 1. SITE AND Buildings are integral to the site on which they are built. A building affects its surroundings, such as the flora and CONTEXT fauna, the manner in which rainwater is absorbed into the ground, and the microclimate around it. Factors such as public transport connectivity will also affect the carbon footprint of its occupants. 1.1 Target setting Target setting can be useful in determining a measurable objective for green building activity; availability of qualified and project team personnel on the project team would streamline achieving green building goals. 1.1.1 Preliminary Some codes set basic sustainability targets for projects. • Do the regulations require that sustainability targets be setting of These may be in the form of total carbon dioxide (CO2) set for new development projects? sustainability emissions per square meter or overall thermal transfer targets value (OTTV) of the building or in the form of an Energy Performance Index (EPI). 1.1.2 Appointment Some codes require that a green building professional • Do the building regulations recommend that at least one of green building be on the building design team. Green building Green Building Professional be appointed to the project professional professionals include individuals with relevant education design team? or professionals with international certifications such as LEED GA, LEED AP, EDGE Expert. 1.2 Ecology and Buildings are an integral part of the ecosystem and the environment. Care must be taken to ensure that adverse environment effects of the buildings are minimized. 1.2.1 An EIA determines the environmental impact of the • Do the building regulations recommend that an EIA be Environmental project and mitigation measures. conducted (during project design)? impact assessment EIAs are usually mandatory for projects larger than a • Do projects need EIAs? (EIA) certain size in terms of built-up area. For example, in India, • Are EIA teams required to have accredited consultants? projects with a site area of more than 50 hectares or a • If yes, which accreditation is required? built-up area of 150,000 square meters must obtain an • What are the aspects of the environment impact that an environmental clearance by submitting an EIA to the state EIA must cover? EIA authority. – Landform EIAs usually contain sections on such areas as air quality, – Natural resources water quality, noise, soil resources, traffic management, – Ambient air and socioeconomic impact. – Soil In certain countries, projects larger than a certain area – Ecology may require an EIA. In some cases, an EIA is mandatory if – Worker health, sanitation, and safety the project is in an environmentally sensitive zone or there – Solid waste disposal will be effluents that require special treatment. – Occupational health – Public health and safety – Traffic movement 1.2.2 Integration of This assesses if the design of building or property • Are specific protection or buffer zones set aside for project’s with local respond appropriately to ecological factors such as flora, water bodies, forests, etc.? ecosystem fauna, presence of water bodes (lakes, rivers, sea). For If yes, please indicate: example: – For water bodies [enter linear distance] Leaving adequate buffer zones near water bodies to – For forests or nature reserves [ enter linear distance] ensure that the water bodies’ catch basins are not – Other, please indicate harmed. – Do the building regulations address on-site tree Ensuring that only native tree and shrub species are cutting? grown so that local fauna habitats are not damaged. – Do the building regulations require native landscaping? – Do the building regulations specify a certain amount of open space allocation in the project? 6. BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDING 29 30 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Table 1. (cont.) Topic Relevance Diagnostic questions 1. SITE AND CONTEXT (cont.) 1.2.3 Exterior Nighttime light pollution from excessive lighting • Do the building regulations address flood lighting? light pollution and (especially in urban areas) affects the biological and • Do the building regulations address light emission from controls circadian rhythms of birds, animals, and plants. This can external light fixtures? be mitigated by ensuring that all exterior light fittings around and on buildings have shades on top so that light is directed down to the pathways as required for human way finding. 1.2.4 Storm water Storm water must be attenuated so that as much • Do the building regulations address storm water attenuation rainwater as possible is retained within the boundaries of attenuation? the property. This has two effects. If yes, which measures are specified? It primarily reduces chances of downstream flooding outside the property. It improves the level of water table of the property. 1.2.5 Microclimate Buildings near each other can alter the microclimate of • Do the building regulations address minimum distance and outdoor the outdoor spaces between them, which could result in from neighboring buildings or abutting streets? comfort such things as inadequate solar access and wind tunnels. If yes, please specify: For example, if a new building is built too close to an – Between buildings existing building, it can cast shadows that will limit – Between building and streets daylight in the existing building. In addition, buildings • Do the building regulations prescribe minimum close together may create a “tunnel effect,” increasing distances between buildings? For example, certain wind speed and causing discomfort for people using the codes stipulate that the distance between two buildings space between the buildings. may be 1/2 or 1/3 of the height of the taller of the two buildings. 1.3 Building and Location of buildings in the larger surroundings of urban areas plays an important role in determining the carbon transport footprint of its users. 1.3.1 Proximity Access to the property in terms of public transport • Do the building regulations address maximum distance to public connectivity is an important aspect of site selection. It will between the project and public transportation transit transportation reduce the carbon footprint of those who use or visit the points such as bus stops, bus rapid transit system stops, building. Ideally, public transport systems such as bus, and metro or railway stations? metro, and light rail will be within walking distance of the • Do the building regulations stipulate that a development proposed development, which will reduce private vehicle may proceed only if there is some form of public use to access the building. transportation available near the proposed project? 1.3.2 Preferential Electric vehicles reduce vehicular pollution. Preferential • Do the building regulations require electric charging parking for electric parking for electric vehicles makes it easier for drivers stations in the parking area? vehicles of electric vehicles to use the building. An example of • Do the building regulations require preferential parking a preferential provision may be that parking spots for for electric vehicles? electric vehicles are closest to the building entrance. 1.3.3 Bicycle Encouraging building users to use bicycles instead of • Do the building regulations require a minimum number storage and cars reduces vehicular congestion and pollution. Cyclists of bicycle parking spots? changing rooms need changing rooms to change into and out of official • Do the building regulations require designated bicycle workwear and secure storage facilities for their bicycles. storage? • Do the building regulations require changing rooms and shower facilities for bicycle commuters? Chapter 6 Table 1. (cont.) Topic Relevance Diagnostic questions 2. ENERGY Energy efficiency is a key aspect of green buildings. Because climate varies from one region to another, buildings must EFFICIENCY be built for local climatic conditions. By understanding the local building stock, architects and designers can analyze the performance of existing buildings in terms of energy consumption, thermal comfort, and natural ventilation. This knowledge can inform the design of new green buildings, incorporating passive design strategies that leverage local climate conditions such as solar orientation, shading, natural ventilation, and insulation. 2.1 Demand- Demand side accounts for the amount of energy that the building will need for optimal functioning. The aim of a code side measures must be to reduce the energy demand of the building. (increasing energy efficiency): 2.1.0 Methods to Typically, there are two methods of estimating the energy • Does the code specify how the energy efficiency is to be achieve energy use of a new building. measured? efficiency The performance method simulates building design using • Do the building regulations mention any route to achieve building energy modeling (BEM) software and ensures energy efficiency? that energy use intensity and the energy performance • Do the building regulations mention an energy index are within prescribed limits mandated by the code. performance index or energy use intensity for different A BEM software can be used to calculate the energy types of buildings? performance index (EPI) (measured in kWh/m3 per year) • Do the building regulations formally recognize buildings of the proposed building, which will be limited to certain certified through 3rd party Green Building Rating agreed-upon standards. This can be expensive because it Certification Systems as green buildings? requires trained resources and personnel to perform the If yes, list the recognized systems and the certification building energy modeling. marking required (gold/platinum or a star rating). With the prescriptive method, building energy modeling software is not needed. Hence most codes also contain measures that must be followed in a prescriptive manner. The code could recommend a third method to follow the green building code: Green building certification can be received from a recognized third-party such as LEED, BREAAM, Green Star, EDGE or any of globally recognized green building rating systems. 2.1.1 Passive Passive design includes features that are integral to the construction of the building, for example types of walls, design measures windows, and roof. Energy demand is first reduced by ensuring that the building is designed to reduce the need for occupants to rely on artificial means of achieving human comfort (e.g., air conditioning, ceiling fans). 2.1.1.1 Building Building orientation affects building heating and cooling • Do the building regulations address or prescribe building orientation loads. Orienting a building optimally considering orientation? geographic location and local climate can reduce cooling • Do the building regulations specify orientation for load in warm climates and heating load in cold climates. different types of buildings? For example, in warm climates, it is desirable for the long facades of a building to face north or south, which reduces incident solar radiation. This is a difficult provision to make compulsory, but guidance can be provided on orientation. 2.1.1.2 Window-to- Windows and structural glazing provide light and • Do the building regulations address a minimum or wall ratio (WWR) ventilation, but in warm climates, they also bring in maximum WWR? unwanted heat, increasing the load on air conditioning • Do the building regulations prescribe different WWR for systems and thus increasing energy use. Having the differently oriented walls? optimum window-to-wall ratio (WWR) helps balance the • Does the code provide the formula for calculating WWR? two opposing requirements. 6. BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDING 31 32 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Table 1. (cont.) Topic Relevance Diagnostic questions 2. ENERGY EFFICIENCY (cont.) 2.1.1.3 Thermal Thermal bridges are elements of a building that leak heat • Do the building regulations provide guidance on avoiding bridging between the outdoors and indoors, possibly because thermal bridges? of poorly insulated joints (e.g., exposed floor slabs, • Do the building regulations provide guidance on the type uninsulated window frames or glazing). of window/glazing sections that can be used for thermal bridges? 2.1.1.4 Shading Horizontal shading reduces solar radiation on windows • Do the building regulations provide guidance on various and glazing when the sun is high in the sky. types of shading implements? Vertical shading reduces solar radiation on windows and • Are there instructions on how the shading must be glazing when the sun is low in the sky. designed? A combination of vertical and horizontal shading is • Do the building regulations specify shading implements usually recommended to reduce solar radiation from for different orientations? various sun angles. • Are there instructions on which orientation of walls must be provided with horizontal, vertical, or combined shading? • Do the building regulations specify formulas for shading? • Do the building regulations specify the Vertical Shading Angle (VSA)? • Do the building regulations specify the Horizontal Shading Angle (HSA)? • Do the building regulations provide an illustrative cross- section drawing to explain VSA & HSA? 2.1.1.5 Thermal Thermal transmittance is the amount of heat that a • Do the building regulations specify U-value requirements transmittance of material transfers from outdoors to indoors to raise the for glass? glass (U-value) temperature by 1°Kelvin. This is also called U-value. The • Do the building regulations outline different U-value lower the U-value, the greater the insulating properties of requirements for different orientations? the material. The SI Unit of U-value is Watts per Square meter Kelvin (W/SqM. K)The inverse of U-value is R-value, which is the measure of how well an insulation resists the flow of heat. 2.1.1.6 Glass SHGC is the amount of heat that glass admits from direct • Do the building regulations specify SHGC requirements solar heat gain solar radiation incident on the surface of the glass. It is for glass? coefficient (SHGC) expressed as a fraction or a percentage (e.g., 0.1=10%, • Do the building regulations outline different SHGC 0.65=65%). Shading the window reduces the SHGC, as requirements for different orientations? does tinting the glass. • Do the building regulations have provisions for adjusted SHGC by combining this measure with shading? 2.1.1.7 Combined Combined glazing properties include the SHGC and the • Do the building regulations provide guidance on glazing assembly U-value of the glass and the frame. Some codes require combined glazing assembly properties? properties that the opening properties be seen holistically with U-values, SHGC, shading, and orientation. 2.1.1.8 Air Air infiltration is the phenomenon of air leaking from • Do the building regulations outline measures for infiltration one space to another, reducing cooling or heating preventing air infiltration? effectiveness of the space. • What measures to prevent air infiltration are included in A well-sealed door or window will minimize air infiltration. the code? Joints of pipes and ducts entering the walls must also • Do the building regulations prescribe specific joints for be effectively sealed, which may be done by caulking, mitigating air infiltration? skirting, or architraves at various joints. • Are there specific joints mentioned in the code, for example, between the window frame and the jamb? • Do the building regulations provide construction details in the form of figures or sketches as guidance? Chapter 6 Table 1. (cont.) Topic Relevance Diagnostic questions 2. ENERGY EFFICIENCY (cont.) 2.1.1.9 Daylighting Abundant daylight in a building reduces the need for • Do the building regulations specify daylighting artificial lighting, reducing energy use during the daytime. requirements, for example that a certain percentage of Most codes will suggest that adequate daylight be habitable building area must be adequately lit through available in buildings. In the general building code, daylight for a certain percentage of the day? daylighting values will be specified in lux. If yes, has a formula or an explanatory diagram been provided to define adequate daylighting for a given space? 2.1.1.10 Natural Natural ventilation occurs in a building without use of • Do the building regulations specify openable window, ventilation artificial systems such as fans and air conditioning, glazing, or perforation area with respect to the room’s reducing reliance on artificial ventilation. usable floor area? Most codes suggest that adequate natural ventilation be available within a building when the ambient temperature is within the comfort range. Usually there is a standard that stipulates that the openable portion of a window must be at least 5% (or similar figure) of the usable floor area of the space. 2.1.1.11 Thermal A low U-value for a wall helps keep the building cool or • Do the building regulations specify U-value requirements transmittance of warm. This can be achieved by choosing the right wall for the walls? walls (U-value) assembly material or insulating the wall surface. • Do the building regulations prescribe different U-value The SI Unit of U-value is Watts per Square meter Kelvin requirements for different orientations? (W/SqM. K). The inverse of U-value is R-value, which is the If yes, have guidance U-values been provided for the measure of how well something resists the flow of heat. most common masonry assemblies used in the country? 2.1.1.12 Wall Heating/Cooling of a wall through direct solar radiation is Do the building regulations specify a SRI for walls? reflectivity a function of its color and texture. Using walls with high reflectivity in warm climates reduces the heat gain of the building. The higher the solar reflectance index (SRI), the greater the reflectivity of the surface. 2.1.1.13 Thermal A roof with a low U-value helps keep a building cool or • Do the building regulations specify U-value requirements transmittance of warm. This can be achieved by choosing the right roof for the roof? roof (U-value) material or insulating the roof surface. If yes, have guidance U-values been provided for the The SI Unit of U-value is Watts per Square meter Kelvin most common roof assemblies used in the country? (W/SqM. K). The inverse of U-value is R-value, which is the measure of how well something resists the flow of heat. 2.1.1.14 Thermal Floors with a low U-value that touch the earth or are • Do the building regulations specify U-value requirements transmittance of exposed to the outside (e.g., stilted floors) helps keep the for the floor? floor (U-value) building cool or warm. This can be achieved by choosing If yes, have guidance U-values been provided for the the right floor material or insulating the floor surface. most common floor assemblies used in the country? The SI Unit of U-value is Watts per Square meter Kelvin (W/SqM. K). The inverse of U-value is R-value, which is the measure of how well something resists the flow of heat. 2.1.1.15 Roof Heating/Cooling of the roof through direct solar radiation • Do the building regulations stipulate a certain SRI solar reflectivity is a function of its color and texture. Using roofs with reflectance index for the roof. high reflectivity in warm climates reduces heat gain. Reflectivity is measured according to a solar reflectance index. The higher the index, the greater the reflectivity of the surface. 6. BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDING 33 34 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Table 1. (cont.) Topic Relevance Diagnostic questions 2. ENERGY EFFICIENCY (cont.) 2.1.1.16 Overall OTTV is the total average heat that a building envelope • Do the building regulations specify an OTTV for various thermal transfer absorbs. Heat gain happens through all surfaces of a types of buildings? value (OTTV) building that form a barrier between the external and If yes, note the standards described. internal environments. OTTV is calculated using various building physics equations. OTTV is specified in warm climates to ensure that the building envelope absorbs as little heat as possible, minimizing the use of air conditioning in the building. Variants of OTTV are RTTV (Roof thermal transfer value), and RETV (residential envelope transfer value). The principles of heat transfer remain the same. The unit of measure is usually watts per Square Meter of the Building Area (w/sq.m). 2.1.1.17 Green Green roofs have vegetation on them, along with • Do the building regulations require construction of green roofs structural and waterproofing safeguards, reducing roofs? the transfer of heat into and out of the building. Green Is there a minimum standard for such roofs in terms of roofs also increase biodiversity in densely built urban area covered by vegetation? environments and are becoming increasingly popular. 2.1.2. Lighting Artificial lighting consumes a significant portion of the energy used in a building. Energy-efficient lighting reduces the amount of energy required for lighting. 2.1.2.1 Lamps Lighting efficiency can be measured in two ways: • Do the building regulations specify light power density Light power density is defined as the total power that all for various types of buildings? lighting in a building consumes divided by the total area of • Do the building regulations specify a minimum level of the building. It indicates the energy efficiency of lighting. lumens per watt for lighting fixtures? The unit is w/sq.m. Luminous efficacy refers to the amount of light output per watt of electricity used in a particular lamp. The unit is lumens per watt. Lighting technology has advanced so that light-emitting diode (LED) lighting is at least six times as efficient as incandescent lighting and at least twice as efficient as linear and compact fluorescent lighting. LEDs are also available in all colors and for most types of lighting applications. 2.1.2.2 Daylight Daylight sensors are used on light fixtures that are close • Do the building regulations specify daylight sensors? sensors to windows. In large-occupancy spaces, they switch • Do the building regulations provide measurements for off lights when sufficient daylight is available, reducing the depth (perpendicular to the window opening) up to energy use. They are usually found in large, open-plan which the spaces should be fitted with daylight sensors? offices, classrooms, and lecture halls, where workstations • Are daylight sensors available in the local market? near windows receive adequate daylight. 2.1.2.3 Occupancy Occupancy sensors switch lights that are not used • Do the building regulations specify occupancy sensors? sensors regularly off and on and can be used in spaces such as • Do the building regulations prescribe minimum lighting corridors and office areas where low levels of light are levels for different types of spaces? sufficient for one to enter the space. When someone • Are occupancy sensors available in the local market? enters the space, the remaining lights switch on for full functionality. The extra lights then switch off after the occupant exits the space. Chapter 6 Table 1. (cont.) Topic Relevance Diagnostic questions 2. ENERGY EFFICIENCY (cont.) 2.1.2.4 Automatic Daylight sensors can be fitted to exterior lights (e.g., street • Do the building regulations specify external lighting exterior lighting lights, garden lights) to switch them on at dusk and off controls? controls at dawn. They may be based on photoelectric sensors or • Do the building regulations prescribe minimum lighting timers. levels for different types of spaces? Are automatic exterior lighting controls available in the local market? 2.1.2.5 Occupancy Occupancy sensors connected to lighting switch off or • Do the building regulations specify occupancy sensors sensors for garage on lights that are not used regularly and can be used in for car parks ? lighting spaces like parking areas where low levels of lighting • Are occupancy sensors available in the local market? are sufficient for one to enter the space. When someone enters the space, the remaining lights switch on for full functionality. The extra lights then switch off after the occupant exits the space. 2.1.3 Heating, In a fully air-conditioned building in a warm climate, an HVAC system can account for 60 to 70% of energy use. Many ventilation, and components of HVAC systems can be made more efficient to decrease this energy use. air conditioning (HVAC) systems 2.1.3.1 Ceiling fans In climates where cooling is required, ceiling fans are • Do the building regulations address the use of ceiling the most energy-efficient of the various active cooling fans? systems. • Do the building regulations stipulate that ceiling fans are a prerequisite for installing an air-conditioning system? 2.1.3.2 Air Air economizers are installed in air conditioning • Do the building regulations prescribe air economizers? economizers equipment to let fresh air into the system when the outdoor temperature matches the desired indoor temperature. They also shut off the chiller operation, saving energy. They are an add-on feature to an HVAC air handling unit that draws in outdoor air and mixes it with return air from indoors. This is useful when the ambient temperature is within the human comfort range on many days in the year. 2.1.3.3 Coefficient The COP is the ratio of the amount of cooling or heating • Do the building regulations address minimum COP or of performance achieved to the amount of energy used. It can also be other efficiency ratios like EER, IEER or SEER for air (COP) for air expressed as energy efficiency ratio (EER), seasonal conditioning systems? conditioning energy efficiency ratio (SEER) &, or integrated energy efficiency ratio (IEER). All manufacturers include one of these values in their technical data sheet. 2.1.3.4 COP for The COP is the ratio of the amount of cooling or heating • Do the building regulations address minimum COP or heating equipment achieved to the amount of energy used. It can also be other efficiency ratios? expressed as energy efficiency ratio (EER), seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) &, or integrated energy efficiency ratio (IEER). All manufacturers include one of these values in their technical data sheet. 2.1.3.5 Variable- VFDs in AHUs help control fan speed and hence energy • Do the building regulations address VFDs for AHUs? frequency drives use based on occupancy of the space. (VFDs) for air handling units (AHUs) 6. BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDING 35 36 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Table 1. (cont.) Topic Relevance Diagnostic questions 2. ENERGY EFFICIENCY (cont.) 2.1.3.6 Variable- VSD’s for chillers reduce the load on compressors in the • Do the building regulations address VSDs for chillers? speed drives chiller based on the cooling load required. (VSDs) for chillers 2.1.3.7 Variable- VSD’s for pumps in HVAC systems reduce the load based • Do the building regulations address VSDs for chillers? speed drives for on cooling load required. pumps 2.1.3.8 Heat Heat recovery units (HRUs) or Wheels in HVAC systems • Do the building regulations address heat recovery units? recovery from ensure that cooling and heating energy is transferred from return air the exhaust air to the fresh air, reducing the load on the chiller or heating unit. These are usually used in warm, humid climates. 2.1.3.9 Geothermal Unlike the surface of the earth, the temperature from • Do the building regulations specify use of geothermal cooling and heating about 6 meters below the earth and down is usually energy? stable year-round. Depending on location, the temperature remains between 10°C to 25°C. Heat pumps can extract this energy and use it for cooling in hot climates and heating in cold climates. Such technologies can complement or replace conventional HVAC technology. 2.1.3.10 Carbon Enclosed garages usually have exhaust systems that run • Do the building regulations require CO sensors for monoxide (CO) continuously to prevent concentration of CO from vehicle enclosed garages? sensors for exhaust. A CO sensor ensures that the fans switch on only • Do the building regulations address fresh air garages when CO concentrations exceed the prescribed limit. requirements for enclosed car parking spaces? 2.1.3.11 Natural It is best that garages be naturally ventilated, which will • Do the building regulations require that the car parks be ventilation for ensure that CO concentrations do not exceed prescribed naturally ventilated? garages limits. This is not addressed because the most feasible location for parking is often underground. 2.1.3.12 Pipe and Pipes and ducts transport water or air at temperatures • Do the building regulations require insulation of pipes duct insulation higher or lower than the ambient temperature. An and ducts? insulated pipe or duct will ensure that heat loss or gain • Is there another provision that addresses insulation of is minimized, reducing the load on the heating or cooling HVAC pipes and ducts? system. Most with HVAC system manufacturer have made it mandatory to insulate pipes and ducts to increase energy efficiency, even in the absence of regulation. 2.1.4 Other: Many pieces of equipment have more-efficient versions. For example, elevators come with an option for regenerative Elevators, pumps, brakes that convert the heat generated during braking into electrical energy that another elevator or any equipment in motors, and the building can use. generator sets 2.1.4.1 Calculation Most countries mandate that all equipment that uses • Do the building regulations prescribe minimum energy of energy efficiency energy adheres to the minimum efficiency prescribed efficiency standards for equipment such as pumps and index in national or international standards. These are usually motors. found in the electrical code. 2.1.4.2 Elevator Most countries require that elevators and escalators • Do the building regulations prescribe minimum energy and escalator adhere to minimum efficiency prescribed in national or efficiency standards for elevators and escalators? efficiency international standards. These are usually found in the • Do the building regulations address use of elevators with electrical code. regenerative brakes? Chapter 6 xx Table 1. (cont.) Topic Relevance Diagnostic questions 2. ENERGY EFFICIENCY (cont.) 2.1.4.3 Power Power quality is essential for efficient equipment • Do the building regulations address power factor factor correctors operation, and power factor, which is the measure of correctors? (PFC) how efficiently incoming power is used in an electrical installation, contributes to this. PFCs are electronic circuits that can increase the efficiency of equipment. 2.1.4.4 Heat In cold climates, heat can be extracted from wastewater • Do the building regulations address heat recovery from recovery from through heat exchange which can then be reused for wastewater? wastewater water/space heating. 2.2 Supply- Renewable energy technologies such as solar photovoltaic and wind turbines enable building owners to generate their side measures own energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuel–based energy sources. (augmenting supply with renewable energy) 2.2.1 Renewable Solar power or wind can be used to generate electricity • Do the building regulations address renewable energy? energy on site by installing a renewable energy power plant or connecting to a grid that provides off-site renewable energy. 2.2.2 Solar water Heating water for bathing, cooking, and other purposes • Do the building regulations require use of solar water heaters uses considerable energy. Solar water heaters (SWH) use heaters (SWH)? freely available solar energy. • Do the building regulations specify a certain percentage of hot water that must be heated using solar water heaters? 2.2.3 Net-zero A net-zero building produces all the energy that it uses. A • Do the building regulations provide guidance for and net-positive net-positive building produces more energy than it needs. achieving net-zero or net-positive energy consumption? buildings 2.2.4 Thermostat Energy can be conserved by programming thermostats • Do the building regulations address set temperatures for management to slightly higher temperatures in warm climates or lower various types of buildings? temperatures in cold climates. Even a 1° difference can make significant changes in the energy consumption of the HVAC system. 2.3 Knowledge Knowledge of how energy is used is critical in managing behavior regarding energy use. and behavior management 2.3.1 Electricity Submetering enables the energy consumption of various • Do the building regulations address submetering? submetering components of the building to be measured, for example, • Do the building regulations specify items for lighting, pumps, and HVAC systems. Submetering submetering? provides data that can be used to increase energy efficiency. 2.3.2 Use of smart Building management systems (BMS) monitor use of • Do the building regulations address BMS? systems to monitor various resources in the building and provide data that • Do the building regulations recommend that certain and control energy can be used to reduce energy use. aspects of data be collected, for example, how much use energy the HVAC system or the lighting consume? 2.3.3 This is an important step in ensuring that the components • Do the building regulations address commissioning? Documentation, of a building run smoothly in tandem with the use case of regulation, the building and that the minimum amount of energy is implementation used. and commissioning 6. BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDING 37 38 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Table 1. (cont.) Topic Relevance Diagnostic questions 3. WATER Water efficiency affects the finite water resources of a region and energy efficiency. With shifting climate patterns, EFFICIENCY access to water is becoming difficult in many regions around the world, so water efficiency is critical. 3.1 Demand- Demand signifies the amount of water that building users need for optimal functioning. The aim of a code must be to side measures reduce the water demand of buildings. (increasing water efficiency) 3.1.1 Water- Water use can be reduced by using the most water- • Do the building regulations address water-efficient efficient fixtures efficient fixtures available on the market that provide fixtures? sufficient “wash feel” and hygiene. Water efficiency is • Do the building regulations specify flow rates for each measured according to flow rate, expressed in liters per type of fitting? minute. – Faucets – Showers – Single-flow flush toilets – Dual-flow flush toilets 3.1.2 Water- Use of drip irrigation instead of conventional systems • Do the building regulations address water-efficient efficient irrigation such as sprinklers and planting native and drought- landscape irrigation systems? system resistant species of plants increase water efficiency. • Do the building regulations prescribe water-saving species or native species for landscaping? 3.1.3 Swimming Covering pools when they are not in use prevents water • Do the building regulations prescribe swimming pool pool covers from evaporating. covers? 3.2 Supply- Harvesting rainwater and using recycled water enable building owners to generate their own water supply, which side measures reduces reliance on resources such as rivers and lakes. (augmenting through alternative sources of supply) 3.2.1 Condensate Condensate, water that collects and drips out of the • Do the building regulations address condensate recovery recovery compressor of an air conditioner, can be captured and and recycling? recycled. 3.2.2 Wastewater About 80 to 85% of water consumed in a building is • Is all wastewater treatment centralized and provided by treatment ejected as wastewater that must be treated for hygiene the city, town, or village municipal authority? and safety before it can be disposed of. Most cities If not, is wastewater treatment addressed in the code? and towns have a centralized facility or require that • Do the building regulations address on-site wastewater buildings larger than a certain size have their own sewage treatment for a certain size building (in terms of gross treatment plants (STP). floor area or other measure such as number of rooms in a hotel, number of dwelling units in a residential development, number of beds in hospital)? 3.2.3 Reuse of Most sewage treatment plants provide treated water that • If the answer is yes to whether wastewater treatment is treated water can be used for toilet flushing and landscaping. Such required, do the building regulations address reuse of for non-potable water usually has a biological oxygen demand of less than filtered water for non-potable purposes? purposes 10 parts per million of bacteria present in water. 3.2.4 Reuse of Wastewater can be subjected to ultra-filtration that can • If the answer is yes to whether wastewater treatment is treated water for then be used for potable purposes. required, do the building regulations address reuse of potable purposes filtered water for potable purposes? 3.2.5 Roof Harvesting rainwater reduces dependence on piped • Do the building regulations address roof rainwater rainwater potable water. Rainwater can be harvested by collecting harvesting? harvesting it and recharging it into the ground or can be collected –Do the building regulations forbid roof rainwater and filtered and used to augment or replace conventional harvesting? water supply sources. –Do the building regulations prescribe the proportion of roof area to be dedicated to rainwater harvesting? Chapter 6 Table 1. (cont.) Topic Relevance Diagnostic questions 3. WATER EFFICIENCY (cont.) 3.3 Knowledge Knowledge of how water is used is critical in managing behavior regarding water use. and behavior management 3.3.1 Water use Submetering enables the water consumption of various • Do the building regulations address water submetering? submetering components of the building to be measured, for example, • Do the building regulations require that specific end uses sinks, toilets, showers. be separately metered? Supply-side inlets such as water from the city, town, or village authority; water from rainwater harvesting; and treated water from a sewage treatment plant can also be sub metered. Submetering provides data that can be used to increase water efficiency. 4. BUILDING Incorporating green building measures involves using sustainable materials with low embodied energy, along with MATERIALS sustainable construction practices. Understanding the local building stock helps identify materials that can be locally sourced and that are environmentally friendly and optimal for the local context, which reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation and supports the local economy. 4.1 Recycled Many buildings components, such as steel, can be recycled and reused, reducing dependence on virgin resources. Building Materials 4.1.1 Recycled Some codes require that a certain percentage of building • Do the building regulations specify a percentage of building materials components be of recycled raw materials. For example, building materials to be made of recycled materials? Pozzolanic Portland cement (PPC) contains a significant percentage of fly ash (a by-product of coal power production) or ground granulated blast furnace slag ((GGBS) - a by-product of steel production). 4.2 Low Embodied Manufacturing building materials consumes a significant amount of energy, which is called embodied energy. For Energy Materials example, producing a burnt brick consumes 4 times as much energy as producing a concrete block. 4.2.1 Building Using materials with less embodied energy reduces • Do the building regulations prescribe use of low materials with low the carbon footprint of a building. As a thumb rule local embodied energy materials? embodied energy materials have lesser embodied energy as transportation • Are low embodied energy materials available in the (Energy used for adds to the embodied energy of a material. This also has market? building material an added advantage of encouraging local economy. production) 4.2.2 Design Buildings can be designed to optimize use of materials. • Do the building regulations provide guidance for buildings to For example, a cantilevered structure usually consumes optimizing building material use? optimize building more steel than a structure supported with columns at the material use end. Although this can be difficult to mandate, guidance can be provided to architects and structural engineers to optimize design with a view to reducing use of building materials, reducing embodied energy. 5. CONSTRUCTION The construction process creates local pollution and generates significant waste, including debris, packaging, and unused materials. Implementing construction processes that control pollution and prioritize waste management strategies such as sorting, recycling, and responsible disposal reduces waste. 5.1 Construction Construction process generates pollution (e.g., dust, noise, materials leeching into the water table). It is critical to pollution control control and manage the pollution. 5.1.1 Dust Construction dust is a huge problem, especially in fast- • Do the building regulations prescribe measures to developing urban areas. It is possible to control it using mitigate pollution during construction? various methods such as spraying water and ensuring that the site is well covered on the sides. 6. BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDING 39 40 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Table 1. (cont.) Topic Relevance Diagnostic questions 5. CONSTRUCTION (cont.) 5.1.2 Soil retention Excavated soil is normally heaped in piles around a • Do the building regulations provide guidance on during stormwater construction site. When it rains, the soil can mix with management of construction site water run-off? discharge runoff, clogging streets and stormwater drains. Care must be taken to cover the soil properly or dispose of it safely. 5.2 Construction Waste generated from construction goes into landfills. However, with proper management it can become a resource Waste for recycling into other uses. Management 5.2.2 Construction Construction sites generate considerable waste. For • Do the building regulations prescribe measures for waste example pieces of tile, cardboard, polystyrene foam, construction and demolition waste? management paper, all types of plastics, leftover insulation, and • Are there regulations on handling of construction waste? scraps of steel must be segregated, stored temporarily, and disposed of responsibly. Waste generated during construction goes into landfills, but with proper management, it can be recycled for other uses. 6. OCCUPANT Occupant health, safety, and comfort (OHSC) do not directly affect GHG emissions, but there are codes mandating HEALTH, SAFETY, some of these measures. AND COMFORT 6.1 Indoor Air Indoor air quality is critical to the health of occupants and can be controlled with good design and selection of Quality materials. 6.1.1 Indoor air Carcinogenic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in • Do the building regulations address indoor air quality? quality paints, carpets, and adhesives used for fixing wood and • Do the building regulations specify measures for low wood products decrease indoor air quality. Low VOC VOC materials? materials are widely available. 6.1.2 CO2 sensors In spaces with a high concentration of people (e.g., • Do the building regulations address CO2 sensors in large for fresh air supply offices, auditoriums), CO2 concentrations can build up assembly spaces? above safe limits. CO2 sensors connected to the HVAC system will signal the AHU to increase fresh air intake. 6.2 Indoor sensory Indoor sensory comfort includes such factors as lighting and exterior views. comfort 6.2.1 Indoor Adequate indoor lighting is important for physical and • Do the building regulations outline standards for indoor lighting mental health. lighting? 6.2.2 Nature- Spaces connected with nature (windows overlooking a • Do the building regulations require nature-connected connected spaces garden or the city skyline) help occupants have a sense views? and views of connection with the outdoors, which improves overall well-being. 6.2.3 Acoustical Urban settings have become noisy. Some codes require • Do the building regulations have standards on allowable comfort and measures such as well-sealed windows and doors to noise inside? control prevent undue amounts of noise from coming inside. Prolonged exposure to loud noise is harmful to health. 7. SOLID WASTE Solid waste management is becoming critical in most cities globally. A building that provides for segregation of solid MANAGEMENT waste will enable its occupants to manage waste proactively and responsibly. 7.1 Segregation of Building designs that enable the segregation of waste is the first step towards responsible handling of waste. Waste 7.1.1 Segregation Responsible solid waste management is extremely • Do the building regulations prescribe measures for of solid waste important for local ecosystems. Spaces within a building solid waste segregation and management inside the that provide for safe segregation and storage until property? disposal are important. Wet waste can be composted on site and used as fertilizer for landscaping. Chapter 6 Table 2. Related Review Items Topic Relevance Diagnostic Questions A1. COUNTRY CONTEXT A1.1 Regulatory Some countries have a code that is advisory, with the • Is there a national building code or equivalent? environment regional, provincial, or city government implementing the – Does the national building code refer to sustainable or regulations. This code covers all aspects of a building green buildings? (e.g., architectural, structural, electrical, plumbing, – Does the code include new and existing buildings? sewerage). – Does the code outline building labeling standards? Some countries include green or sustainable building Are these labeling standards linked to incentives? as a separate chapter or document in the code; others – Which agency or ministry is responsible for the green split efficiency measures into various disciplines. For building code? example, passive design measures may be included in – Which agency or ministry drafted the green building the architecture section, water efficiency measures in code or regulation and at what level: central or federal; the plumbing section, cooling and heating efficiency regional, state, or provincial; municipal? measures in the HVAC section. • Is there an enabling law that the legislature has passed to initiate the green building code, and at what level was this initiated: central or federal; regional, state, or provincial; municipal? • Which agency or ministry implements the green building code or regulation and at what level: central or federal; regional, state, or provincial; municipal? • What is the state of green building code or regulation implementation? • How well has the market accepted it? • Is there resistance to its implementation? If so, why? • Are industry stakeholders aware of the code or regulation? • Are there specific building types that have a higher rate of implementation than others? If so, why? • Are there specific regions or cities that have a higher rate of implementation than others? If so, why? A2. STATE OF THE BUILDING CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY A2.1 Building stock Understanding the local building stock enables a • What is the makeup of the existing building stock? contextualized approach to green building, accounting • What are the major building types for which green for the existing built environment and incorporating building codes may be required? sustainable practices that align with the local context. • What is the energy and water consumption for each Appreciation of the local building stock helps identify building type or category? buildings that can be preserved and adaptively reused • What is the construction growth projected for each rather than demolished. Retrofitting and renovating building type? The following building types can be existing structures can often be more sustainable than characterized according to gross floor area and number constructing new buildings because it reduces embodied of buildings. energy and preserves cultural heritage. – Residential—single-family units The success of green building initiatives depends on – Residential—multifamily units (apartments) community acceptance and participation. Understanding – Office the local building stock enables architects, designers, – Educational (kindergartens, schools, colleges, and developers to engage with the community effectively, universities) allowing for a dialogue that considers the community’s – Retail needs, preferences, and cultural values and fostering – Health care a sense of ownership and cooperation in adopting – Hospitality sustainable building practices. – Industry – Other (e.g., convention centers, airports, bus stations, railway stations) 6. BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDING 41 42 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Table 2. (cont.) Topic Relevance Diagnostic Questions A2. STATE OF THE BUILDING CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY (cont.) A2.2 Local market Local markets are an important indicator of demand for • What is the market penetration of construction technologies. Availability of materials and technology materials that aid in green and sustainable building? solutions in the market eases code and regulation – Masonry (e.g., lightweight cavity blocks, autoclaved adoption. From an analytical point of view, the success aerated concrete blocks) of the code or regulation will depend on the availability – Roofs and slabs (e.g., reinforced cement concrete of the material or technology. If materials or technology with ground granulated blast furnace slag or fly ash, needed to make buildings green is unavailable in the insulated sheet metal) local market, the government must provide incentives – Windows and glazing (e.g., high-performance glass for adoption of such materials or technology when such as double-glazed units, low-e glass) introducing the related measures in the code. – Insulation (e.g., expanded polystyrene, polyurethane foam) – Solar water heaters – Solar photovoltaic panels – High-efficiency HVAC systems – Low-flow faucets – Sewage treatment plants with recycling facilities – Rainwater harvesting technologies • What is the status of the green building movement in the country? – Are there examples of green certified buildings? – Are there organizations (public or private) or individuals that are actively promoting green building? A2.3 Availability Professional associations play a key role in driving • Is there an accreditation or licensing system for and organization green building implementation by convening industry professionals involved in the building construction of building industry experts, disseminating knowledge, setting standards, industry? professionals and promoting best practices. These associations – Architects typically comprise architects, engineers, contractors, and – Green building professionals and experts other professionals in the built environment sector and – Structural engineers participate in furtherance and adoption of sustainable – Electrical engineers building practices through advocacy and policy – Public health engineers (plumbing, sewage) influence, knowledge sharing and research, professional – HVAC (mechanical) engineers development and training, networking and collaboration, – Interior designers standards and guidelines, recognition and awards, – Contractors research and development. – Developers • Are there professional associations in the following disciplines? – Architects – Green building professionals and experts – Structural engineers – Electrical engineers – Public health engineers (plumbing, sewage) – HVAC (mechanical) engineers – Interior designers – Contractors – Developers Chapter 6 Table 2. (cont.) Topic Relevance Diagnostic Questions A3. USE AND OCCUPANCY CLASSES A3.1 Building Although building classification is not a green building • Are the regulations classified according to the climate classification principle or strategy for building regulation, it sets of the region? benchmark criteria for specific requirements (e.g., • Do the building regulations contain a single set of based on population, size, primary activity of building). building use or occupancy classifications that apply to In general, building classification depends on the use all parts of the regulation? If not, is there a specific set and climate of the site. Building use classes in the for green buildings? building regulations should reflect building uses of the • If there is more than one set of use and occupancy country in question. Different building uses and occupant classifications, is there any conflict between them? characteristics present different energy and water consumption patterns and therefore require different approaches. It depends on regulatory structure. When there is more than one set of building use and occupancy classifications, check that they are not in conflict. A3.2 Mixed-use When a building has multiple uses (e.g., high-rise • Do the building regulations contain special provisions buildings residential on top of commercial or mercantile space), for mixed use? If so, must the entire building comply care should be taken to identify what provisions apply with the most restrictive use? to the building and its parts (e.g., most restrictive for the • What triggers the dominant use? use applies or mix based on uses). Related regulatory provisions would typically be found wherever the overall discussion of building use and occupancy classes is found in regulations. This may be in a regulation (e.g., the International Building Code in the United States) or in a reference document (e.g., Approved Document B in England). 6. BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDING 43 44 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Manhattan, New York. Photo: © francois-roux Appendix: Methodology of Checklist Development The tool has been developed in the following manner: Step 1: A desk review was conducted of global examples of green building codes to study leading examples (e.g., structure of codes and standards, set of regulatory documents and their structure and depth of regulatory guidance). • A comprehensive literature review was conditions were identified to ensure a conducted to gather information on comprehensive analysis. Countries and green building practices, standards, and states from Africa (Ghana, Egypt, Rwanda, regulations, providing a solid foundation of South Africa), Asia (Dubai, India, Singapore, knowledge on international green building Sri Lanka, Vietnam), South America codes and initiatives. (Colombia), North America (California), and Europe (England) were selected. The • A detailed desk review of building codes latest versions of green building codes and regulations from the selected countries were obtained and reviewed. Relevant was conducted. Countries with diverse information from the building codes of the geographical, climatic, and socioeconomic selected countries was studied. 45 46 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Comparative analysis of existing green building regulations The desk review drew upon codes from a variety of countries with different geographic, climatic, and socioeconomic conditions. The countries and states analyzed for this work were: › Africa › Asia › South America › North America › Europe Egypt, Ghana, Dubai, India, Colombia California England Rwanda, South Singapore, Sri Africa Lanka, Vietnam Green building provisions for the following climate conditions were analyzed for: › Warm and humid › Cold › Hot and dry parts of Colombia, Ghana, parts of Colombia, England Dubai, Egypt India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam The following green building regulations were reviewed: › California › England, UK › Rwanda CalGreen, 2019 Part L1 (Dwelling), 2021 Green Building Minimum Compliance System, 2019 › Colombia › England, UK Sustainable Construction Part L2 (Non-dwelling), 2021 › Singapore Code, 2015 Green Mark (Gold Rating), › Ghana 2016 R1 › Dubai Part 37 of Ghana Building United Arab Emirates—Green Code: Building and › South Africa Building Regulations and Construction, 2018 SANS 10400 XA, 2021 Specifications, 2015 › India › Sri Lanka—Energy Efficiency › Egypt Energy Conservation Building Building Code, 2020 (Draft) Green Pyramid Rating System, Code, 2017 (NR 0- Non- › Vietnam—National Technical 2011 residential) Regulation on Energy Efficient Building, 2017 High level country comparative analysis is presented in Table A.1. Appendix Step 2: A list was created of critical provisions included in global examples, and topics were categorized. • The checklist was developed based on • The checklist was validated by seeking the objectives identified, such as specific input from global experts in green building, green building design criteria, or provisions sustainability, and architecture and relevant to different climates. The task team leaders from the World Bank comparative studies distilled key topics with energy and climate backgrounds. that most countries are addressing to Professionals with experience in national identify seven fundamental green building building codes and regulations were components and verify a recommended consulted to ensure that the checklist was range of design values. comprehensive and relevant. • Feedback from these experts was incorporated, and the checklist was refined accordingly. APPENDIX: METHODOLOGY OF CHECKLIST DEVELOPMENT 47 48 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Table A.1. Comparative study summary Asia Africa South Europe USA America South Africa England L1 England L2 Singapore California Colombia Sri Lanka Vietnam Rwanda Ghana Dubai Egypt India Energy Efficiency Building Code Part 37 of Ghana Building Code Green Building Regulations and National Technical Regulations Sustainable Construction Code Minimum Compliance System Green Pyramid Rating System Energy Conservation Building on Energy Efficient Buildings L2 – 2021 (Non Dwelling) Green Mark (Gold Rating) - Building & Construction Rwanda Green Building L1 – 2021 (Dwelling) SANS 10400 XA Specifications 2020 (Draft) CalGreen Code Code document name 2017 (NR) 2016 R1 2020 2017 2015 2021 2019 2018 2011 2015 2021 2021 2019 Version and issue date 1. SITE AND CONTEXT Preliminary A few codes ask for basic sustainability targets setting of be set for the project sustainability targets Appointment of Some codes require that a certified green green certified professional(s) are a part of the design team team Environmental EIA is a process that outlines the environmental impact impact of the project along with the mitigation assessment measures (EIA) 1. EIA is normally mandated by the Environment Ministry 2. There are accredited consultants who usually work on EIA 3. EIA is usually mandatory for projects above a certain size in terms of built-up area. (For e.eg. in India, projects having a site area of above 50 hectares or built up area of 150,000 sq.m have to get Environmental Clearance by way of a EIA submitted to the State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority.) 4. They will usually contain the following sections: Air Quality, Water Quality, Noise Levels, Soil Resources, Traffic Management, Socioeconomic impacts. Integration of This measure means that the design of the project into local building or property respond appropriately ecosystem to ecological factors such as flora, fauna, presence of water bodes (lakes, rivers, sea). For example: 1. Leaving adequate buffer zones near water bodies to ensure that such water bodies’ catch basins are not harmed. 2. Ensuring that only native species of trees and shrubs are grown so that local fauna habitats are not damaged. mandatory voluntary Appendix Table A.1. (cont.) Asia Africa South Europe USA America South Africa England L1 England L2 Singapore California Colombia Sri Lanka Vietnam Rwanda Ghana Dubai Egypt India Energy Efficiency Building Code Part 37 of Ghana Building Code Green Building Regulations and National Technical Regulations Sustainable Construction Code Minimum Compliance System Green Pyramid Rating System Energy Conservation Building on Energy Efficient Buildings L2 – 2021 (Non Dwelling) Green Mark (Gold Rating) - Building & Construction Rwanda Green Building L1 – 2021 (Dwelling) SANS 10400 XA Specifications 2020 (Draft) CalGreen Code Code document name 2017 (NR) 2016 R1 2020 2017 2015 2021 2019 2018 2011 2015 2021 2021 2019 Version and issue date 1. SITE AND CONTEXT (cont.) Exterior light Nighttime light pollution from excessive pollution and lighting (especially in urban areas) affects controls the biological and circadian rhythms of birds, animals and plants. This can be mitigated by ensuring that all exterior light fittings around and on buildings have shades on top so that light is directed down to the pathways as required for human way finding. Microclimate Buildings near each other can alter and outdoor microclimate of outdoor spaces between them, comfort which could result in such things as inadequate solar access and wind tunnels. For example, if a building is too close to an existing building, it can cast shadows that will affect daylight in the existing building. In addition, buildings close together may create a “tunnel effect,” increasing wind speed and causing discomfort for people using the space between the buildings. Proximity to Access to the property in terms of public public transpor- transport connectivity is an important part of tation site selection. It will reduce the carbon footprint of those who use or visit the building. Ideally, public transport systems such as bus, metro, and light rail will be within walking distance of the proposed development, which will reduce private vehicle use to access the building. Preferential Electric vehicles reduce vehicular pollution. parking for Preferential parking for electric vehicles will electric vehi- make it easier for drivers of electric vehicles to cles use the building. Bicycle storage Encouraging building users to use bicycles in- and changing stead of cars reduces vehicular congestion and rooms pollution. Bicycle owners need changing rooms to change into and out of official workwear. mandatory voluntary APPENDIX: METHODOLOGY OF CHECKLIST DEVELOPMENT 49 50 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Table A.1. (cont.) Asia Africa South Europe USA America South Africa England L1 England L2 Singapore California Colombia Sri Lanka Vietnam Rwanda Ghana Dubai Egypt India Energy Efficiency Building Code Part 37 of Ghana Building Code Green Building Regulations and National Technical Regulations Sustainable Construction Code Minimum Compliance System Green Pyramid Rating System Energy Conservation Building on Energy Efficient Buildings L2 – 2021 (Non Dwelling) Green Mark (Gold Rating) - Building & Construction Rwanda Green Building L1 – 2021 (Dwelling) SANS 10400 XA Specifications 2020 (Draft) CalGreen Code Code document name 2017 (NR) 2016 R1 2020 2017 2015 2021 2019 2018 2011 2015 2021 2021 2019 Version and issue date 2. ENERGY EFFICIENCY MEASURES Demand-side management (increasing energy efficiency) Methods to Typically, there are two methods of estimating achieve energy the energy use of a new building. efficiency Performance method: This simulates the building design using building energy mod- eling software and ensures that energy use intensity and the energy performance index are within prescribed limits mandated in the code. Building energy modeling software can be used to calculate the energy performance index (measured in kWh/m2/year) of the pro- posed building, which will be limited to certain agreed-upon standards. Prescriptive Method: The building energy modelling software required for the perfor- mance method is expensive. It also requires for the professionals to be trained in the software. Hence most codes also contain measures that must be followed in a prescriptive manner. The code could recommend a third way to follow the green building code: Green building certification can be received from a third party such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology, Green Star, and Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies. Passive design strategies Building Orienting a building properly can reduce the orientation cooling load in warm climates and heating load in cold climates. For example, in warm climates, it is desirable for the long facades to face north or south, which reduces incident solar radiation. Window-to-wall Windows and structural glazing provide light ratio and ventilation, but in warm climates, they also bring in unwanted heat, increasing the load on air conditioning systems and thus increasing energy use. Having the optimum window-to- wall ratio helps balance the two opposing requirements. mandatory voluntary Appendix Table A.1. (cont.) Asia Africa South Europe USA America South Africa England L1 England L2 Singapore California Colombia Sri Lanka Vietnam Rwanda Ghana Dubai Egypt India Energy Efficiency Building Code Part 37 of Ghana Building Code Green Building Regulations and National Technical Regulations Sustainable Construction Code Minimum Compliance System Green Pyramid Rating System Energy Conservation Building on Energy Efficient Buildings L2 – 2021 (Non Dwelling) Green Mark (Gold Rating) - Building & Construction Rwanda Green Building L1 – 2021 (Dwelling) SANS 10400 XA Specifications 2020 (Draft) CalGreen Code Code document name 2017 (NR) 2016 R1 2020 2017 2015 2021 2019 2018 2011 2015 2021 2021 2019 Version and issue date 2. ENERGY EFFICIENCY MEASURES (cont.) Demand-side management (increasing energy efficiency) (cont.) Thermal Thermal bridges are elements of a building that bridging leak heat between the outdoors and indoors, possibly because of poorly insulated joints (e.g., exposed floor slabs, uninsulated window frames). Horizontal Horizontal shading reduces solar radiation on shading windows when the sun is high in the sky. Vertical shading Vertical shading reduces solar radiation on windows when the sun is low in the sky. Combined Combined shading reduces solar radiation and horizontal and is used for differing sun angles based on the vertical shading orientation of the facade. Thermal Thermal transmittance is the amount of heat transmittance of that a material transfers from outdoors to glass indoors to raise the temperature by 1◦ Kelvin. (U-value) This is also called U-value. The lower the U-val- ue, the greater the insulating properties of the material. The inverse of U-value is R-value. Glass solar heat The solar heat gain coefficient is expressed gain coefficient as a fraction or %age (0.1=10 %, 0.65=65 %). It is the amount of heat that glass admits from direct solar radiation incident on the surface of the glass. Shading the window reduces the solar heat gain coefficient, as does tinting the glass. Combined Combined glazing properties include the glazing assem- U-value of the glass and the frame and the bly properties SHGC. Air infiltration Air infiltration is the phenomenon of air leaking (air leakage from one space to another, reducing the cool- or building ness (warm climate) or warmth (cold climate) envelope of the space. sealing) A well-sealed door or window will minimize air (openings: e.g., infiltration. Joints of pipes and ducts entering doors, windows, the walls must also be effectively sealed, which glazing, sealing may be done by caulking or skirting frames at around duct the joints. inlets) Daylighting Abundent daylight in a building reduces the need for artificial lighting and hence energy use during the daytime. mandatory voluntary APPENDIX: METHODOLOGY OF CHECKLIST DEVELOPMENT 51 52 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Table A.1. (cont.) Asia Africa South Europe USA America South Africa England L1 England L2 Singapore California Colombia Sri Lanka Vietnam Rwanda Ghana Dubai Egypt India Energy Efficiency Building Code Part 37 of Ghana Building Code Green Building Regulations and National Technical Regulations Sustainable Construction Code Minimum Compliance System Green Pyramid Rating System Energy Conservation Building on Energy Efficient Buildings L2 – 2021 (Non Dwelling) Green Mark (Gold Rating) - Building & Construction Rwanda Green Building L1 – 2021 (Dwelling) SANS 10400 XA Specifications 2020 (Draft) CalGreen Code Code document name 2017 (NR) 2016 R1 2020 2017 2015 2021 2019 2018 2011 2015 2021 2021 2019 Version and issue date 2. ENERGY EFFICIENCY MEASURES (cont.) Demand-side management (increasing energy efficiency) (cont.) Natural Natural ventilation reduces reliance on artificial ventilation ventilation. Thermal trans- A low U-value for a wall helps keep a building mittance of wall cool or warm and can be achieved by choosing (U-value) the right masonry material or insulating the wall surface. Wall reflectivity Heating of a wall through direct solar radiation is a function of its color and texture. Using walls with high reflectivity for warm climates reduces heat gain. Thermal trans- A roof with a low U-value helps keep a building mittance of roof cool or warm and can be achieved by choosing (U-value) the right roof material or insulating the roof surface. Roof reflectivity Heating of the roof through direct solar radia- tion is a function of its color and texture. Using roofs with high reflectivity in warm climates reduces heat gain. Energy-efficient equipment Lighting Daylight Daylight sensors are used on light fixtures sensors that are close to windows. In large-occupancy spaces, they switch off lights when sufficient daylight is available, reducing energy use. They are usually found in large, open-plan offices, classrooms, and lecture halls, where workstations near windows receive adequate daylight. Occupancy Occupancy sensors switch lights that are not sensors used regularly off and on and can be used in spaces such as corridors and office areas where low levels of light are sufficient for one to enter the space. When someone enters the space, the remaining lights switch on for full functionality. The extra lights then switch off after the occupant exits the space. mandatory voluntary Appendix Table A.1. (cont.) Asia Africa South Europe USA America South Africa England L1 England L2 Singapore California Colombia Sri Lanka Vietnam Rwanda Ghana Dubai Egypt India Energy Efficiency Building Code Part 37 of Ghana Building Code Green Building Regulations and National Technical Regulations Sustainable Construction Code Minimum Compliance System Green Pyramid Rating System Energy Conservation Building on Energy Efficient Buildings L2 – 2021 (Non Dwelling) Green Mark (Gold Rating) - Building & Construction Rwanda Green Building L1 – 2021 (Dwelling) SANS 10400 XA Specifications 2020 (Draft) CalGreen Code Code document name 2017 (NR) 2016 R1 2020 2017 2015 2021 2019 2018 2011 2015 2021 2021 2019 Version and issue date 2. ENERGY EFFICIENCY MEASURES (cont.) Lighting (cont.) Daylight Daylight sensors are used on light fixtures sensors that are close to windows. In large-occupancy spaces, they switch off lights when sufficient daylight is available, reducing energy use. They are usually found in large, open-plan offices, classrooms, and lecture halls, where workstations near windows receive adequate daylight. Occupancy Occupancy sensors switch lights that are not sensors used regularly off and on and can be used in spaces such as corridors and office areas where low levels of light are sufficient for one to enter the space. When someone enters the space, the remaining lights switch on for full functionality. The extra lights then switch off after the occupant exits the space. Automatic Daylight sensors can be fitted to exterior lights exterior lighting (e.g., street lights, garden lights) to switch them controls on at the dusk and off at dawn. They may be based Occupancy Occupancy sensors switch lights that are not sensor for used regularly of and on and can be used in garage lighting spaces such as parking areas where low levels of lighting are sufficient for one to enter the space. When someone enters the space, the remaining lights switch on for full functionality. The extra lights then switch off after the occupant exits the space. Heating, In a fully air-conditioned building in a warm ventilation, and climate, HVAC systems can account for 60 % air conditioning to 70 % of energy use. Many components of (HVAC) systems HVAC systems can be made more efficient to decrease this energy use. Air Air economiers are installed in air conditioning economizers equipment to let fresh air into the system when the outdoor temperature matches the desired indoor temperature. They also cut off the chiller operation, saving energy. They are an add-on feature to an HVAC air handling unit that draws in outdoor air and mixes it with return air from indoors. mandatory voluntary APPENDIX: METHODOLOGY OF CHECKLIST DEVELOPMENT 53 54 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Table A.1. (cont.) Asia Africa South Europe USA America South Africa England L1 England L2 Singapore California Colombia Sri Lanka Vietnam Rwanda Ghana Dubai Egypt India Energy Efficiency Building Code Part 37 of Ghana Building Code Green Building Regulations and National Technical Regulations Sustainable Construction Code Minimum Compliance System Green Pyramid Rating System Energy Conservation Building on Energy Efficient Buildings L2 – 2021 (Non Dwelling) Green Mark (Gold Rating) - Building & Construction Rwanda Green Building L1 – 2021 (Dwelling) SANS 10400 XA Specifications 2020 (Draft) CalGreen Code Code document name 2017 (NR) 2016 R1 2020 2017 2015 2021 2019 2018 2011 2015 2021 2021 2019 Version and issue date 2. ENERGY EFFICIENCY MEASURES (cont.) Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems (cont.) Coefficient of The COP is the ratio of the amount of cooling performance or heating achieved to the amount of energy (COP) for air used. It can also be expressed as energy conditioning efficiency ratio, seasonal energy efficiency ratio, or integrated energy efficiency ratio. All manufacturers include one of these values in their technical data sheet. COP for heating The COP is the ratio of the amount of cooling equipment or heating achieved to the amount of energy used. It can also be expressed as energy efficiency ratio, seasonal energy efficiency ratio, or integrated energy efficiency ratio. All manufacturers include one of these values in their technical data sheet. Variable- Variable frequency drives in air handling units frequency drives help control fan speed and hence energy use for air handling based on occupancy of the space. units Variable-speed Variable speed drives for chillers reduce the drives for load on compressors in the chiller based on the chillers cooling load required. Variable-speed Variable speed drives for pumps in HVAC drives for systems reduce the load based on cooling load pumps required. Heat recovery Heat recovery units in HVAC systems ensure from return air that cooling and heating energy is transferred from the exhaust air to the fresh air, reducing the load on the chiller or heating unit. These are usually used in warm, humid climates. CO sensors for Enclosed garages usually have exhaust garages systems that run continuously to prevent concentration of CO from vehicle exhaust. A CO sensor ensures that the fans switch on only when CO concentrations exceed the prescribed limit. Occupancy sensors and other controls Pipe and duct Pipes and ducts transport water or air at tem- insulation peratures higher or lower than the ambient tem- perature. An insulated pipe or duct will ensure that heat loss or gain is minimized, reducing the load on the heating or cooling system. mandatory voluntary Appendix Table A.1. (cont.) Asia Africa South Europe USA America South Africa England L1 England L2 Singapore California Colombia Sri Lanka Vietnam Rwanda Ghana Dubai Egypt India Energy Efficiency Building Code Part 37 of Ghana Building Code Green Building Regulations and National Technical Regulations Sustainable Construction Code Minimum Compliance System Green Pyramid Rating System Energy Conservation Building on Energy Efficient Buildings L2 – 2021 (Non Dwelling) Green Mark (Gold Rating) - Building & Construction Rwanda Green Building L1 – 2021 (Dwelling) SANS 10400 XA Specifications 2020 (Draft) CalGreen Code Code document name 2017 (NR) 2016 R1 2020 2017 2015 2021 2019 2018 2011 2015 2021 2021 2019 Version and issue date 2. ENERGY EFFICIENCY MEASURES (cont.) Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems (cont.) Other: Many pieces of equipment have more-efficient Regenerative versions. For example, elevators come with an elevators, option for regenerative brakes that convert heat pumps, motors, generated during braking into electrical energy generator that another elevator or any equipment in the sets building can use. Calculation Most countries mandate that all equipment of energy that uses energy adheres to the minimum efficiency index efficiency prescribed in national or international standards. Elevator and Most countries require that elevators and es- escalator calators adhere to the minimum efficiency pre- efficiency scribed in national or international standards. Electricity Submetering enables the energy consumption submetering of various components of the building to be determined, for example, lighting, pumps, HVAC systems. Submetering provides data that can be used to increase energy efficiency. Power factor Power quality is essential for efficient equip- correctors ment operation, and power factor, which is the measure of how efficiently incoming power is used in an electrical installation, contributes to this. Power factor correctors are electronic cir- cuits that increase the efficiency of equipment. Heat recovery In cold climates, heat is extracted from waste from waste water through heat exchange. water Supply-side management (augmenting supply with renewable energy) Solar water Heating water for bathing, cooking, and other heaters purposes uses considerable energy. Solar wa- ter heaters use freely available solar energy. Renewable Solar power or wind can be used to generate energy energy on site by installing a renewable energy power plant or connecting to a grid that pro- vides off-site renewable energy. Net-zero and A net-zero building produces all the energy that net-positive it uses. A net-positive building produces more buildings energy than it needs. Knowledge and behavior management Electricity Submetering enables the energy consumption submetering of various components of the building to be measured, for example, lighting, pumps, and HVAC. Submetering provides data that can be 55 used to increase energy efficiency. mandatory voluntary 56 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Table A.1. (cont.) Asia Africa South Europe USA America South Africa England L1 England L2 Singapore California Colombia Sri Lanka Vietnam Rwanda Ghana Dubai Egypt India Energy Efficiency Building Code Part 37 of Ghana Building Code Green Building Regulations and National Technical Regulations Sustainable Construction Code Minimum Compliance System Green Pyramid Rating System Energy Conservation Building on Energy Efficient Buildings L2 – 2021 (Non Dwelling) Green Mark (Gold Rating) - Building & Construction Rwanda Green Building L1 – 2021 (Dwelling) SANS 10400 XA Specifications 2020 (Draft) CalGreen Code Code document name 2017 (NR) 2016 R1 2020 2017 2015 2021 2019 2018 2011 2015 2021 2021 2019 Version and issue date 2. ENERGY EFFICIENCY MEASURES (cont.) Knowledge and behavior management (cont.) Use of smart Building management systems monitor use of systems to resources in the building and provide data that monitor and can be used to reduce energy use. control energy use Documentation, This is an important step in ensuring that the regulation, various components of a building run smoothly implementation, in tandem with the use case of the building and and that the least amount of energy possible commissioning is used. 3. WATER EFFICIENCY Demand-side Reducing demand for water by using the most management water-efficient fixtures available in the market (increasing while providing the same “wash feel” and water hygiene is important. efficiency) Water-efficient fixtures Low-flow faucets Low-flow showers Dual-flow flushes Water-efficient Use of drip irrigation instead of conventional irrigation systems such as sprinklers and planting system native and drought-resistant species of plants increase water efficiency. Swimming pool Covering pools when they are not in use covers prevents water from evaporating. Supply-side management (augmenting through alternative sources of supply) Condensate Condensate, water that collects and drips out recovery of the compressor of an air conditioner, can be captured and recycled. Wastewater About 80 % to 85 percdent of water consumed treatment in a building is ejected as waste water that must be treated for hygiene and safety before it can be disposed of. Most cities and town have a centralized facility or require that buildings larger than a certain size have their own sew- age treatment plant. mandatory voluntary Appendix Table A.1. (cont.) Asia Africa South Europe USA America South Africa England L1 England L2 Singapore California Colombia Sri Lanka Vietnam Rwanda Ghana Dubai Egypt India Energy Efficiency Building Code Part 37 of Ghana Building Code Green Building Regulations and National Technical Regulations Sustainable Construction Code Minimum Compliance System Green Pyramid Rating System Energy Conservation Building on Energy Efficient Buildings L2 – 2021 (Non Dwelling) Green Mark (Gold Rating) - Building & Construction Rwanda Green Building L1 – 2021 (Dwelling) SANS 10400 XA Specifications 2020 (Draft) CalGreen Code Code document name 2017 (NR) 2016 R1 2020 2017 2015 2021 2019 2018 2011 2015 2021 2021 2019 Version and issue date 3. WATER EFFICIENCY (cont.) Supply-side management (augmenting through alternative sources of supply) (cont.) Reuse of Most sewage treatment plants provide treated treated water water that can be used for flushing toilets and for nonpotable landscaping. Such water usually has a biolog- purposes ical oxygen demand of less than 10 parts per million of bacteria present in water. Reuse of Wastewater can be ultrafiltered and used for treated water potable purposes. for potable purposes Roof rainwater Rainwater can be harvested by collecting it and harvesting recharging it into the ground or can be collect- ed and filtered and used to augment or replace conventional water supply sources. Storm water Storm water must be attenuated so that as attenuation much rain water as possible is retained within the boundaries of the property. This has two effects. 1. It primarily reduces chances of downstream flooding outside the property. 2. It improves the water table of the property. Knowledge and behavior management Water use sub- Submetering enables the water consumption metering of various components of the building to be measured, for example, sinks, toilets, showers. Supply-side inlets such as water from the city, town, or village authority; water from rainwater harvesting; and treated water from a sewage treatment plant can also be submetered. Submetering provides data that can be used to increase water efficiency. 4. BUILDING MATERIALS Recycled Some codes require that a certain %age of building building components be of recycled raw materials materials. For example, Pozzolanic Portland ce- ment contains a significant %age of fly ash (a by-product of coal power production) or ground granulated blast furnace slag (a by-product of steel production). Building Manufacturing building materials consumes a materials with significant amount of energy, which is called low embodied embodied energy. Using materials with less energy embodied energy reduces the carbon footprint of a building. For example a burnt brick con- sumes 4 times as much energyas producing a concrete block. mandatory voluntary 57 58 BUILDING CODE CHECKLIST FOR GREEN BUILDINGS Table A.1. (cont.) Asia Africa South Europe USA America South Africa England L1 England L2 Singapore California Colombia Sri Lanka Vietnam Rwanda Ghana Dubai Egypt India Energy Efficiency Building Code Part 37 of Ghana Building Code Green Building Regulations and National Technical Regulations Sustainable Construction Code Minimum Compliance System Green Pyramid Rating System Energy Conservation Building on Energy Efficient Buildings L2 – 2021 (Non Dwelling) Green Mark (Gold Rating) - Building & Construction Rwanda Green Building L1 – 2021 (Dwelling) SANS 10400 XA Specifications 2020 (Draft) CalGreen Code Code document name 2017 (NR) 2016 R1 2020 2017 2015 2021 2019 2018 2011 2015 2021 2021 2019 Version and issue date 4. BUILDING MATERIALS Effect of Some countries encouage use of building building material materials that do not affect the environment production on significantly in terms of pollution or use of environment scarce resources such water. (resource conservation) 5. CONSTRUCTION PROCESS Dust Construction dust is a huge problem, especially in fast-developing urban areas. It is possible to control it using various methods such as spraying water and ensuring that the site is well covered on the sides. Soil retention Excavated soil is normally heaped in piles during around the construction site. When it rains, the storm water soil can mix with the runoff, clogging streets discharge and stormwater drains. Care must be taken to cover the soil properly or dispose of it safely elsewhere. Operational Construction sites generate considerable waste waste. For example, pieces of tile, cardboard, management polystyrene foam, paper, all types of plastics, leftover insulation, and scraps of steel must be segregated, stored temporarily, and disposed of responsibly. 6. OCCUPANT HEALTH, SAFETY, AND COMFORT Indoor air Carcinogenic volatile organic compounds in quality paints, carpets, and adhesives used for fixing wood and wood products decrease indoor air quality. Low-volatile organic compound materi- als are widely available. CO2 sensors In spaces with a high concentration of people for fresh air (e.g., offices, auditorims), CO2 concentrations supply can build up above safe limits. CO2 sensors connected to the HVAC system will signal the air handling unit to increase fresh air intake. Indoor Adequate indoor lighting is important for physi- lighting cal and mental health. Acoustical Urban settings have become noisy. Some comfort and codes require measures such as well-sealed control windows and doors to prevent undue amounts of noise from coming inside. Prolonged expo- sure to loud noise is harmful to health. mandatory voluntary Appendix Table A.1. (cont.) Asia Africa South Europe USA America South Africa England L1 England L2 Singapore California Colombia Sri Lanka Vietnam Rwanda Ghana Dubai Egypt India Energy Efficiency Building Code Part 37 of Ghana Building Code Green Building Regulations and National Technical Regulations Sustainable Construction Code Minimum Compliance System Green Pyramid Rating System Energy Conservation Building on Energy Efficient Buildings L2 – 2021 (Non Dwelling) Green Mark (Gold Rating) - Building & Construction Rwanda Green Building L1 – 2021 (Dwelling) SANS 10400 XA Specifications 2020 (Draft) CalGreen Code Code document name 2017 (NR) 2016 R1 2020 2017 2015 2021 2019 2018 2011 2015 2021 2021 2019 Version and issue date 6. OCCUPANT HEALTH, SAFETY, AND COMFORT (cont.) Nature- Spaces connected with nature (e.g., a window connected overlooking a garden, or the city skyline) help spaces and occupants have a sense of connection with the views outdoors, which improves overall well-being. 7. SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT Segregation of Responsible solid waste management is solid waste extremely important for the local ecosystem. Spaces in a building that provide for safe segre- gation and storage until disposal are important. Wet waste can be composted on site and used as fertilizer for landscaping. mandatory voluntary APPENDIX: METHODOLOGY OF CHECKLIST DEVELOPMENT 59 Canal restoration project in Bangkok ,Thailand. Photo: © holgs Globally, buildings account for 37% of energy and process-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. With increasing urbanization and population growth, demand for energy will continue to increase faster than the supply of renewable energy. This means that increasing the efficiency of current energy use is critical to climate change mitigation efforts while also meeting the development requirement of growing economies. Regulations that can increase the energy efficiency of buildings and reduce the carbon footprint of buildings are thus vital to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and to achieving the Paris Agreement’s goal of keeping the increase in average global temperature below 2°C. This checklist aims to facilitate a robust approach to reviewing green building provisions in building regulations by providing a discussion of fundamental green building components of building regulations, and a systematic approach to review green building provisions in regulations.