Objective
EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) is an internationally recognized green building certification system developed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group. It aims to promote resource-efficient and environmentally sustainable buildings in emerging markets. EDGE emphasizes practical, affordable solutions to make green buildings accessible to all.
Key Features of EDGE
Focus on Resource Efficiency
EDGE evaluates buildings based on three primary resource-efficiency criteria:
Energy: Reducing energy consumption through renewable energy systems, efficient HVAC systems, and lighting solutions.
Water: Promoting water conservation via efficient fixtures, rainwater harvesting, and greywater reuse.
Materials: Encouraging the use of low-impact materials that reduce embodied energy.
User-Friendly Online Tool
EDGE offers an intuitive online platform to guide developers and designers through the certification process. The tool allows users to estimate savings in energy, water, and materials and provides actionable insights to achieve sustainability goals.
Affordability and Accessibility
EDGE is tailored to emerging markets, focusing on affordable, cost-effective green building solutions without compromising environmental impact.
Wide Applicability
EDGE certification applies to various building types, including residential, commercial, retail, hospitality, and healthcare sectors.
Real-Time Impact Metrics
The platform provides real-time data on environmental and financial impacts, showcasing savings in carbon emissions, water usage, and operational costs.
Certification Flexibility
EDGE offers three levels of certification:
EDGE Certified: Achieving a minimum 20% improvement in energy, water, and materials efficiency.
EDGE Advanced: Demonstrating a 40% or greater reduction in energy consumption.
Zero Carbon: Buildings that achieve net-zero operational carbon emissions through energy efficiency and renewable energy systems.
Benefits of EDGE Certification
- Cost Savings: EDGE-certified buildings consume less energy and water, leading to significant savings in utility bills over the building’s lifecycle.
- Reduced Environmental Impact: By focusing on resource efficiency, EDGE-certified projects minimize their ecological footprint and contribute to global climate change mitigation efforts.
- Increased Market Value: EDGE certification enhances a building’s reputation, making it more attractive to investors, tenants, and buyers seeking sustainable properties.
- Compliance with Regulations: EDGE aligns with global and local sustainability policies, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
- Quick and Cost-Effective Certification: The straightforward certification process is designed to be faster and more affordable compared to other green building certifications, making it ideal for developers in emerging markets.
- Support for ESG Goals: EDGE helps organizations meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) targets, improving their sustainability performance and ratings.
- Healthier Living and Working Spaces: Resource-efficient designs create more comfortable and healthier indoor environments, improving occupant well-being.
EDGE Certification Process
01
Register the Project
Developers start by registering the project on the EDGE platform and inputting project-specific data.
02
Design and Simulation
The EDGE tool generates a preliminary assessment of the project’s resource efficiency, providing recommendations to improve performance.
03
Implementation
Developers incorporate the recommended efficiency measures into the building design and construction.
04
Third-Party Audit
An independent EDGE Auditor verifies the project’s compliance with the resource efficiency requirements.
05
Final Certification
The project is awarded an EDGE certificate based on the level of resource savings achieved.
Global Impact of EDGE
EDGE vs. Other Green Building Certifications
| Aspect | EDGE | LEED | BREEAM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focus Area | Energy, water, and materials savings | Comprehensive sustainability metrics | Holistic sustainability assessment |
| Target Audience | Emerging markets | Global | Global |
| Affordability | High | Moderate to High | Moderate to High |
| Ease of Use | User-friendly online platform | Complex documentation process | Requires detailed reporting |
| Certification Speed | Faster | Moderate | Moderate to Slow |
Why Choose EDGE Certification?
- Simplified Approach: EDGE focuses on practical measures, making it ideal for projects seeking straightforward green certification.
- Cost-Effective: The affordable certification process and emphasis on resource savings make it a popular choice for developers.
- Global Recognition: EDGE certification enhances a project’s credibility and appeal in both local and international markets.
- Sustainability Commitment: EDGE-certified projects showcase a commitment to environmental responsibility, contributing to a greener future.
How Cornerstone Can Help with EDGE Certification
At Cornerstone, we provide comprehensive EDGE certification services, including:
- Preliminary Assessment: Assisting in resource efficiency calculations using the EDGE tool.
- Strategic Consultation: Tailored advice to maximize energy, water, and materials savings.
- Project Management: Coordinating with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure compliance with EDGE criteria.
- Auditing Support: Facilitating third-party audits to streamline the certification process.
