What is Green Building?

A green building is a building that reduces or eliminates negative effects in its design, construction or operation and can have positive effects on our climate and natural environment. Green buildings conserve valuable natural resources and improve our quality of life.

There are a number of features that can make a building 'green'. These include: 

• Efficient use of energy, water and other resources
• Use of renewable energy such as solar energy
• Pollution and waste reduction measures and reuse and recycling
• Good indoor air quality
• Use of non-toxic, ethical and sustainable materials
• Considering the environment in design, construction and operation
• Considering the residents' quality of life in design, construction and operation
• A design that adapts to the changing environment

Any building can be a green building, whether it is a home, office, school, hospital, community center, or any other building, provided it includes the features listed above.

However, it is worth noting that not all green buildings are the same and should not be. Different countries and regions have various characteristics such as distinctive climatic conditions, unique cultures and traditions, various building types and ages, or broad environmental, economic and social priorities - all of which shape green building approaches.

This is why ECO LABEL supports its member Green Building concept and its member companies in individual countries and regions in order to follow the green buildings best suited to their markets.