Navigating the Latest Green Building Certifications for Your Next Project Aug 15, 2025

Embarking on a construction or remodeling project offers numerous opportunities to enhance sustainability and environmental responsibility. For many, understanding green building certifications is crucial to making informed decisions that benefit both the environment and the bottom line. As clients of Arneson Contracting & Construction, you have the opportunity to incorporate these practices into your next project. Let's navigate the maze of green building certifications to help guide your sustainable building journey.

Green building certifications are essential as they verify a building's environmental performance and sustainability. They provide a framework that focuses on reducing waste, conserving energy, and ensuring the well-being of occupants. As the industry evolves, several certifications stand out, offering distinct advantages and specialties for your construction or remodeling project.

One of the most recognized standards in green building is the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. LEED is renowned for its comprehensive approach, considering factors like site sustainability, water efficiency, energy use, and materials selection. Projects pursuing LEED certification often enjoy benefits such as increased property value and reduced operational costs. As a client of Arneson Contracting & Construction, opting for LEED can showcase your commitment to sustainability while reaping economic rewards.

Another essential certification to consider is the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM). BREEAM is particularly popular in Europe and offers a flexible approach with a strong emphasis on environmental impact. This certification rates buildings on various factors, including management processes, health and well-being, energy, transport, water efficiency, and waste management. By incorporating BREEAM guidelines, you ensure that your project not only respects environmental standards but also enhances the quality of life for future occupants.

For those specifically interested in energy efficiency, the WELL Building Standard is an excellent choice. WELL focuses on occupant health and well-being, targeting air quality, water purity, and access to natural light. By prioritizing human health, this certification can significantly improve quality of life while reducing energy usage. Aligning your project with WELL standards can attract clients and tenants who value wellness-conscious living environments.

The Green Globes certification system offers another credible alternative. It provides a flexible and user-friendly approach to green building that suits a wide range of project types, including new constructions, existing buildings, and interiors. Green Globes' online assessment tool allows you to easily evaluate and enhance the sustainability of your project. With this, Arneson Contracting & Construction can seamlessly align construction practices with environmental guidelines, all while maintaining focus on quality and customer satisfaction.

Lastly, don't overlook the National Green Building Standard (NGBS). This certification is particularly valuable for residential projects, given its extensive focus on home efficiency and resource conservation. NGBS caters to both new and remodeled homes, ensuring a sustainable living environment that meets stringent energy conservation criteria.

In conclusion, navigating these green building certifications may seem daunting, but understanding the distinct benefits of each standard can lead to informed decision-making. Arneson Contracting & Construction stands ready to guide you through the complexities of these certifications, ensuring your project meets the highest sustainability standards. Embracing these certifications not only elevates the environmental footprint of your project but also enhances the value and marketability of your building. As we move towards a more sustainable future, selecting the right green building certification is a pivotal step in ensuring your construction or remodeling project contributes positively to both the planet and society.