Building sustainably is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. Whether you’re planning to construct a new home, renovate an existing building, or simply looking to upgrade to a more energy-efficient and eco-friendly structure, understanding green building standards is crucial. Among the most recognized green building certifications is the National Green Building Standard (NGBS).
So, what exactly is the National Green Building Standard? And why should it matter to you?
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the NGBS, how it works, and the benefits it can bring to your building projects. Whether you’re a contractor, architect, or homeowner, understanding this standard is a game-changer for anyone looking to build more sustainably.
What is the National Green Building Standard (NGBS)?
The National Green Building Standard is a performance-based rating system developed by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the International Code Council (ICC). It serves as a guideline for creating sustainable and energy-efficient buildings, focusing on reducing environmental impacts.
In simple terms, the NGBS offers a certification that helps builders create homes and buildings that are not just good for the environment but also provide better living conditions for their occupants.
The NGBS looks at several factors like energy efficiency, water conservation, sustainable site development, and indoor environmental quality. It’s a versatile system that can apply to various types of buildings, including residential, commercial, and mixed-use spaces.
Why is the National Green Building Standard Important?
You might wonder, “Isn’t building sustainably just about using a few energy-efficient materials?” While that’s a part of it, the NGBS takes sustainability a step further by offering a holistic approach that includes the environmental, economic, and social aspects of construction.
The National Green Building Standard is significant because:
- Promotes Environmental Responsibility: It encourages the use of renewable materials, water-saving technologies, and energy-efficient designs, which reduces the building’s overall carbon footprint.
- Improves Health & Comfort: By emphasizing air quality and natural lighting, buildings that adhere to NGBS standards promote better health and comfort for their occupants.
- Increases Value: Homes and buildings that are NGBS certified often have higher resale values and more market demand. They’re considered more desirable because of their sustainable features and lower operational costs.
- Meets Regulatory Requirements: Many cities and states are adopting green building standards in their regulations. By following the NGBS, builders ensure compliance with local laws, making it easier to obtain permits.
How Does the NGBS Certification Process Work?
Getting certified under the National Green Building Standard might sound complicated, but it’s a well-organized and structured process. Here’s how it works:
- Choose a Certification Path: There are different levels of certification depending on how sustainable your project is. The NGBS certification ranges from Bronze (the entry-level) to Silver, Gold, and Emerald (the highest level). Each level has specific criteria, and the more sustainable your project is, the higher the certification level you can achieve.
- Work with a Certifying Professional: While you don’t have to be an expert in green building, you’ll need to work with a trained professional or a certifying agent. These experts help guide you through the process, ensuring that your building meets all the necessary standards.
- Submit Documentation: To gain certification, you’ll need to submit all relevant documentation, including designs, materials used, and energy modeling reports. The certifying agent will help ensure everything is in order.
- Site Inspections: The certification process includes a site inspection where a trained professional verifies the green building practices are in place. These inspections will check that energy-efficient systems, water conservation methods, and eco-friendly materials have been implemented.
- Awarding of Certification: Once your project passes the inspections and meets all the required criteria, you’ll be awarded an NGBS certification at the appropriate level.
What Are the Key Features of NGBS?
The National Green Building Standard is comprehensive, covering multiple aspects of construction. Some of its key features include:
1. Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient design is at the heart of the NGBS. It includes using high-performance insulation, energy-efficient windows, and advanced HVAC systems. These measures ensure that your building uses less energy, reducing your utility bills and carbon footprint.
2. Water Efficiency
Water conservation is another significant focus. The NGBS encourages the use of low-flow fixtures, drought-resistant landscaping, and rainwater harvesting systems. These features not only reduce water consumption but also promote sustainable water management.
3. Sustainable Site Development
The location and design of the building are crucial. The NGBS promotes using previously developed land and minimizing environmental impacts during construction. The standard also encourages the use of green spaces to promote biodiversity and ecological balance.
4. Indoor Environmental Quality
Indoor air quality is a vital part of the NGBS. The standard recommends using low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints, adhesives, and materials to ensure that the indoor air is clean and safe. Natural ventilation and plenty of natural light are also part of the standard to improve the health and comfort of the building’s occupants.
5. Material Selection
Sustainable building materials are key. NGBS encourages using locally sourced, recycled, and durable materials to reduce environmental impact. This helps decrease the carbon footprint and ensures that the building will last longer with minimal upkeep.
Benefits of the National Green Building Standard
Now that we’ve covered the basics of NGBS, let’s look at the specific benefits of implementing it in your building project:
1. Cost Savings
Although green building practices might require a higher upfront investment, they lead to long-term savings. Energy-efficient buildings have lower utility costs, and water-saving features reduce the need for water bills. Plus, eco-friendly buildings often have fewer maintenance needs, saving money over time.
2. Higher Property Value
Homes and buildings certified with NGBS tend to have higher resale values. Buyers are increasingly looking for sustainable homes that offer lower operational costs. So, if you’re a property owner, NGBS certification can give you an edge in the market.
3. Health and Well-being
Buildings that meet NGBS criteria provide better indoor air quality, natural lighting, and a more comfortable living or working environment. These factors can reduce the risk of health issues like respiratory problems and stress, improving overall quality of life.
4. Environmental Impact
The NGBS certification helps reduce a building’s environmental impact by minimizing energy use, conserving water, and using sustainable materials. These steps contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful effects on the environment.
5. Compliance with Local Regulations
As governments worldwide push for sustainability, many cities and states have enacted green building regulations. By adhering to NGBS, you’re likely to meet these requirements, making it easier to obtain permits and approval for your projects.
What Are the Different Levels of NGBS Certification?
As we mentioned earlier, the National Green Building Standard offers different certification levels based on how much a building incorporates sustainable practices. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Bronze Certification
This is the entry-level certification. A building that receives the Bronze certification must meet the basic requirements of the NGBS, demonstrating that it incorporates fundamental green building practices.
2. Silver Certification
Buildings with Silver certification go a step further, meeting more stringent energy and water conservation requirements. They may also incorporate additional sustainable features like advanced heating and cooling systems.
3. Gold Certification
Gold-certified buildings are highly sustainable and efficient, incorporating advanced green technologies, superior energy performance, and high standards for indoor environmental quality.
4. Emerald Certification
Emerald is the highest level of certification and is reserved for buildings that incorporate the best of the best in green building technology. These buildings are truly sustainable, using innovative solutions to minimize their environmental impact.
FAQs About National Green Building Standard
1. What is the cost of getting NGBS certified?
The cost depends on the size and complexity of the project. Generally, it involves fees for certification, inspections, and professional guidance.
2. Can commercial buildings be certified under NGBS?
Yes! While NGBS is widely used for residential buildings, commercial buildings can also be certified under the same system.
3. How long does the certification process take?
It can take several months, depending on the size of the project, documentation, and inspections required.
4. Does NGBS certification apply to renovations?
Yes, NGBS can be applied to both new construction and renovation projects.
5. What are the benefits of NGBS certification?
NGBS-certified buildings are more energy-efficient, cost-effective, and healthier for occupants, and they often have higher resale values.
6. How do I know if my building qualifies for NGBS certification?
Consulting with a certified professional or NGBS expert is the best way to determine if your building meets the criteria.
7. Can I achieve multiple certifications for one building?
No, you can only achieve one certification level (Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Emerald) for a specific building.
8. How can I find a professional to help with NGBS certification?
You can find certified professionals through the NAHB or ICC websites.
9. What’s the difference between NGBS and LEED?
While both are green building certification systems, NGBS is tailored to residential construction, whereas LEED covers a broader range of building types.
10. Does NGBS have ongoing requirements after certification?
NGBS certification does not require ongoing assessments, but maintenance of the green building features is essential to retain the benefits.
Conclusion:
The National Green Building Standard is an essential tool for anyone involved in building or renovating. From cost savings to environmental benefits, getting certified under the NGBS ensures that your project is as sustainable, efficient, and valuable as possible. Whether you’re looking to build a new home or make your existing building more eco-friendly, following these standards will make a huge difference.
By prioritizing green building practices and earning NGBS certification, you’re not just investing in a structure; you’re investing in a better, more sustainable future for everyone.
