EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies), an innovation of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, is making strides in construction and design, promoting sustainability in modern building practices.

This globally recognized certification system, present in 170 countries, is a benchmark for excellence in environmental design. EDGE assesses and certifies buildings committed to minimizing environmental impact, supporting the global push for sustainable construction. 

It encourages significant reductions in energy, water use, and carbon footprint, transforming the industry towards more sustainable practices. EDGE aims to meet international sustainability standards, inspiring the adoption of green solutions in projects for a more sustainable and eco-friendly built environment.

EDGE Development and Structure

The inception of EDGE was driven by a critical need for a sustainable construction protocol that could be universally applied yet adaptable to regional needs. This led to a process that balances global standards with local requirements, making EDGE certification in countries such as the Philippines synonymous with leading energy efficiency and sustainability efforts.

Sustainable properties are perceived to be expensive and unapproachable. EDGE certification aimed to change that by using technology and cost-effective methods to simplify the process. 

EDGE’s development is an ongoing journey, focusing on continuous improvement through versioning and revision. This process ensures that EDGE remains at the forefront of sustainability practices, incorporating the latest green technology and responding to emerging environmental challenges. The system evolves to reflect new findings in energy efficiency and sustainable building practices, ensuring stakeholders have access to a cutting-edge framework.

The structure of EDGE revolves around distinct categories and criteria within its rating system, meticulously designed to cover various aspects of building design and construction. These categories include energy savings, water efficiency, and reduced embodied energy in materials.

Each category contains specific criteria that projects must meet or exceed to achieve certification. This comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of a building’s environmental impact is considered, propelling the industry towards more sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

EDGE Certification Process

The path to achieving EDGE certification in the Philippines is comprehensive and designed to ensure the highest sustainability and energy efficiency levels. This process isn’t just a formality; it’s a deep commitment to creating spaces that contribute positively to our environment and society. At the core of the certification process is a formal assessment encapsulated within distinct stages that span from initial design to operational functionality.

1. Initial Assessment: Projects seeking EDGE certification undergo a detailed assessment against their criteria, including energy savings, water efficiency, and material usage. This sets a sustainable foundation from the design phase. Third-party assessors also play a crucial role in maintaining the evaluation’s credibility and objectivity by providing an unbiased perspective ensuring projects meet EDGE’s standards.

2. Rating Phase: Projects that meet or surpass the assessment standards proceed to the rating phase, where they are scored based on environmental impact and sustainability features. A favorable rating reflects a project’s commitment to green building principles.

3. Certification Phase: Successful projects receive EDGE certification, symbolizing adherence to the highest standards of environmental responsibility and a commitment to sustainable building and operational practices.

Benefits of EDGE Certification

One of the most compelling advantages of obtaining EDGE certification is its influence on marketing and credibility. In an era where consumers and businesses increasingly prioritize sustainability, EDGE-certified buildings stand out for their commitment to minimizing environmental impact.

For example, the Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) residential towers in Milan, Italy, stand as a testament to sustainable innovation. They have secured EDGE certification for their energy-efficient attributes and pioneering design. These towers are distinguished by their verdant balconies, which improve insulation and significantly cut down on energy use.

Transparency and compliance are at the heart of EDGE certification benefits. Through its assessment process, EDGE ensures that projects not only claim but truly embody sustainability principles, offering clear evidence of their green credentials. This transparency bolsters compliance with both local regulations and global environmental standards, setting a high bar for sustainable development.

While both BERDE and LEED certifications are esteemed in sustainable building, EDGE certification introduces a unique focus on practical, cost-effective solutions tailored for emerging markets. It emphasizes achievable, impactful measures, making it a crucial differentiator in the quest for genuine energy efficiency and sustainability.

EDGE in Action

EDGE certification has undeniably left its mark on many regional projects, showcasing a robust commitment to sustainability. An exemplary showcase of EDGE certification in action is seen in the ArthaLand Century Pacific Tower. This iconic 30-story building in Bonifacio Global City, Philippines, is the country’s first EDGE-certified project and the only triple-certified one, boasting LEED Platinum and BERDE 5-star certifications.

The Zero Carbon status highlights projects that offset 100% of their operational emissions and achieve at least 40% energy savings on-site.  ACPT surpasses this with projected energy savings of 45%, powered entirely by hydroelectric energy from the Pantabangan Masiway Hydroelectric Plant.

Through these detailed analyses, one can grasp EDGE certification’s tangible benefits. By spotlighting practical, cost-efficient sustainability solutions, EDGE-certified projects illuminate a path to significant reductions in water and energy consumption and a marked decrease in the carbon footprint. Such case studies are a source of inspiration, proving that combining economic viability with environmental stewardship is possible and highly advantageous.

Unlock the Potential of EDGE Certification

Through EDGE certification, projects demonstrate integrating sustainable practices into construction, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting a sustainable future. Encouraging the adoption of EDGE certification globally is crucial for building a positive legacy for our planet, urging stakeholders worldwide to see its value in fostering a sustainable future. This movement is about more than just a green label—it’s about setting a new standard for future generations.

EDGE emphasizes the fusion of environmental stewardship with innovation, underlining that the certification is more than green compliance; it’s a new way of engaging with our built environment. This showcases the practical and beneficial aspects of prioritizing sustainability without sacrificing quality or design. 

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If you’re passionate about sustainable construction and want to learn more, we recommend you dive into our article with valuable insights. Take a look at Sustainable Construction Materials for Green Buildings.

References:

1. About EDGE. (n.d.). Green Business Certification Inc. https://www.gbci.org/press-kit-edge. 

2. BERDE online. (n.d.). https://berdeonline.org/#about-berde. 

3. ECOINCH SERVICES PRIVATE LIMITED. (2024, April 4). Edge Certification –. https://www.ecoinch.com/edge-certification/. 

4. EDGE Buildings. (2022, May 20). ArthaLand Century Pacific Tower – EDGE Buildings. https://edgebuildings.com/project-studies/arthaland-century-pacific-tower/. 

5. EDGE Buildings. (2024, February 15). Certification – EDGE buildings. https://edgebuildings.com/certify/certification/.

6. LEED rating system | U.S. Green Building Council. (n.d.). https://www.usgbc.org/leed.

7. Pabellano, P. C. (2023, August 17). Green Architecture: a sustainable solution to the construction sector’s environmental challenges — BillionBricks. BillionBricks. https://billionbricks.org/updates/green-architecture-a-sustainable-solution-to-the-construction-sectors-environmental-challenges?rq=EDGE%20certification.

8. Tay, J.C.  (2021, November 13). PROP UP: IFC’s EDGE—An inclusive approach to sustainability. Manila Bulletin. https://mb.com.ph/2021/11/13/prop-up-ifcs-edge-an-inclusive-approach-to-sustainability/