Green Buildings — Definition

Definition

A green building seeks to reduce environmental burdens while delivering suitable comfort, health and usability across its life cycle. Assessment can include site, materials, construction, energy, water, waste, indoor conditions and maintenance.

Operational energy and emissions differ from embodied impacts associated with materials and other life-cycle stages. Efficient demand, efficient services and renewable supply are complementary but distinct measures.

A rating, a design model and actual performance are also different forms of evidence. BEE lists 2024 commercial and residential building-code references, while a specific project's legal obligations depend on the applicable provisions, category and implementation.