GBI Unveils Updated Green Globes Certification Programs for Core & Shell and Sustainable Interiors

The Green Building Initiative (GBI) has launched updated versions of its Green Globes certification programs for Core & Shell (CS) and Sustainable Interiors (SI), each aimed at advancing sustainable design and operational standards. Building on the ANSI/GBI 01-2024 standard, these 2024 certification updates offer project teams new pathways and criteria to meet evolving industry benchmarks in areas like energy efficiency, water use, and indoor air quality. Project teams can now register to access these enhanced Green Globes CS 2024 and SI 2024 modules.

“GBI’s Green Globes Core & Shell and Sustainable Interior rating systems are proven programs adding to the sustainability continuum for owners and tenants,” said Vicki Worden, GBI president and CEO. “This update of the programs ensures that they continue to reflect the latest science and research while maintaining our commitment to deliver robust yet accessible certification options.”

Updates of Interest for Design Professionals

Notable updates to Green Globes CS 2024 include:

• Pathways for Energy Performance using the following:
  • ANSI/ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1, Appendix G
  • Performance – International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
  • Performance – ENERGY STAR® Benchmarking in Target Finder
  • Performance – ASHRAE Building EQ
  • Performance – Net Zero Carbon or Energy Certification
  • Prescriptive
• Additional credit for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
• Updated Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment criteria
• Revised criteria on Sustainable Materials Index (SMI)

Notable updates to Green Globes SI 2024 include:

• Pathways for Water Consumption using the Green Globes Water Reduction Calculator
• New criteria on Occupant Health and Wellness
• Updated Load Shedding Criteria
• Revised criteria on Indoor Pollutants

Green Globes for CS 2024 and Green Globes for SI 2024 and are standalone certification programs that underwent extensive review by various subject matter experts, Green Globes Assessors (GGAs), and end users. Criteria have also been updated to align with new references, standards, and programs, including the ActiveScore, UL 2821 GREENGUARD Certification Program Method for Measuring and Evaluating Chemical Emissions from Building Materials, Finishes and Furnishings, Edition 2, 2022, and ASHRAE 160-2016 Criteria for Moisture-Control Design Analysis in Buildings to name a few. Criteria also align with applicable minimum requirements for all Green Globes programs that went into effect July 1, 2024. Users, stakeholders, and members of the public will be asked to provide input on these programs during public input periods to be held starting in 2025.

GBI has certified nearly 750 million square feet of commercial real estate with Green Globes and the federal Guiding Principles Compliance programs. Users of Green Globes for Core & Shell and Green Globes for Sustainable Interiors will receive GBI’s signature personalized guidance from a dedicated GBI Project Manager and Green Globes Assessor, a design and onsite assessment, and will be evaluated on compliance criteria applicable to their core and shell or fit out project. GBI is proud to support the sustainability of buildings throughout their lifecycles with these updated assessment and certification programs.

Learn more about both certification programs.