At a time when the world is facing a climate crisis, the development of Green Buildings has become a core priority in the global real estate industry. Beyond reducing environmental impact, green buildings enhance occupants’ quality of life and serve as a key driver in advancing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategies in a tangible way.
What Is a Green Building?
A Green Building is designed, constructed, and managed with maximum resource efficiency, environmental responsibility, and occupant well-being in mind. Its key characteristics include:
- Energy Management: Reducing electricity consumption and increasing the use of clean energy
- Water Efficiency: Implementing water recycling systems and optimizing water usage
- Sustainable Materials: Selecting environmentally friendly and recyclable construction materials
- Indoor Air Quality: Providing proper ventilation systems and reducing indoor pollutants
Key Green Building Standards: Enhancing Credibility Through Certification
To ensure that the term “green building” is measurable and verifiable, international organizations have developed certification systems covering multiple sustainability dimensions:
1. U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and LEED
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a globally recognized standard developed by USGBC. It applies to both new and existing buildings.
It evaluates energy use, water management, materials, and overall environmental impact.
Certification levels: Certified → Silver → Gold → Platinum
Suitable for: Offices, shopping malls, hotels, high-rise buildings, and large-scale developments
Focus: Reducing overall environmental impact
2. WELL Building Standard
WELL emphasizes the health and well-being of building occupants beyond energy efficiency.
It covers factors such as air quality, water, lighting, comfort, mental health, and access to natural light.
It certifies buildings that support healthier lifestyles for occupants.
Suitable for: Offices, hotels, hospitals, and educational institutions
Focus: Health and well-being of occupants
3. Fitwel
Developed in the United States, Fitwel focuses on promoting health and access to shared spaces, such as walkability and green areas.
Commonly used for office buildings and general-use facilities.
Suitable for: Commercial buildings, workplaces, and public buildings
4.Thai Green Building Institute and TREES
TREES is Thailand’s green building assessment system, developed by the Thai Green Building Institute to align with Thailand’s climate, regulations, and development context.
It covers building management, energy and water efficiency, indoor environmental quality, material selection, and sustainability innovation.
Certification levels: Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
TREES is a key instrument reflecting sustainability standards in Thailand’s property market and supports corporate ESG goals clearly and effectively.
5.EDGE
EDGE is a green building certification developed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and measurable framework. To be certified, a building must reduce energy use, water use, and embodied energy in materials by at least 20% compared to conventional buildings.
It also offers EDGE Advanced and Zero Carbon levels for higher carbon reduction targets.
EDGE is ideal for projects aiming to integrate sustainability from the design stage and link measurable outcomes to ESG reporting.
6.BREEAM
BREEAM is one of the oldest sustainability assessment standards, originating in the United Kingdom.
It evaluates energy, health, waste, management systems, and innovation.
Widely used in Europe and recognized globally.
Suitable for: Large-scale and various types of commercial projects
Obtaining certifications such as LEED, WELL, or Fitwel enables organizations or buildings to:
- Demonstrate environmental and social responsibility
- Promote sustainable resource use
- Meet ESG criteria increasingly prioritized by investors and tenants
Today, these certifications are considered important ESG performance indicators.
Updated Examples of “World-Class” Green Buildings in Thailand (2024–2026)
1.One Bangkok
Certification: LEED-ND Platinum & WELL Platinum
Highlights: Thailand’s first project to achieve Platinum at the neighborhood level (Neighborhood Development). It includes 50 rai of green space and an intelligent water management system.
2.Dusit Central Park
Certification: LEED Gold & WELL Platinum
Highlights: Features a 7-rai “Roof Park” and seismic-resistant design with 80-meter-deep foundation piles—the deepest in Thailand.
3.One City Centre (OCC)
Certification: Fitwel 2-Star (first in Thailand)
Highlights: Focuses on workplace well-being with “Urban Stage,” an open public space connecting urban life with wellness-oriented design.
The development of green buildings not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances quality of life and increases asset value in an era where ESG has become a global business standard. The higher the level of internationally recognized certification, the greater the long-term benefits for corporate image and investment value.
Source : U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), kswood, Fitwel, BREEAM, TREES
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Green Buildings and International Standards
1.What is the difference between LEED and WELL? Which one should you choose?
- LEED: Focuses on the building itself (the “hard side”)—energy efficiency, water use, and pollution reduction.
- WELL: Focuses on people inside the building (the “soft side”)—air quality, eye-friendly lighting, and mental well-being.
2.Can existing buildings (not newly constructed) obtain green building certification?
Yes. LEED v4.1 O+M (Operations and Maintenance) is specifically designed for existing buildings. It emphasizes improving waste management, energy use, and operational efficiency without requiring demolition and reconstruction.
3.Why do ESG-focused companies prefer leasing offices in green buildings?
Leasing green buildings helps companies clearly report greenhouse gas reductions (Scope 3 emissions). It also strengthens employer branding by attracting younger talent who prioritize environmental responsibility and workplace well-being.
