Barbara A.W. Clarke,Drexel University (PA)
Kevin A. Stover,The Green Building Initiative

The Green Globes Program originated in Great Britain as the "Green Leaf" program.  Since its launch in the United States, the program has certified more than 40 green buildings and has several more that are in the process.  But what's the difference between the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED certification program and Green Globes, and why did Drexel University choose to use Green Globes instead of LEED? 

Well, there are several reasons, but the main difference is that the Green Globes program is a self assessment tool.  In addition, it's important to note that out of Drexel's five current construction projects, one is using both LEED and Green Globes.  I'll get into more of that later.  First, I think it's important to explain the basics of Green Globes.

The seven areas of assessment, which are worth a total of 1000 points, include:

• Project Management
• Site
• Energy
• Water
• Resources
• Emissions and other impacts
• Indoor Environment
   

The Green Globes system awards up to four "globes."  They layout is listed below.  The percentages represent the amount of points that the building receives out of 1000.

85% - 100% - 4 globes (top rating)
70% - 84% - 3 globes
55% - 67% - 2 globes
35% - 54% - 1 globe
 
In order to receive one of the above certifications, the building must be 3rd party certified.  The self assessment tool allows the colleges and universities that use it to incorporate student learning and staff professional development. 

The USGBC also provides opportunity for student learning in their assessment process.  More information can be found here.

One other incentive for using the Green Globes program, according to Mr. Stover, was that 12 of the 15 sub-items of the ACUPCC are addressed through the Green Globes system.

Another helpful fact is that there is a 80% - 85% overlap between Green Globes and LEED.  And as I mentioned above, Drexel currently has 5 buildings under construction.  (You can see the full list here.)  They chose to register for LEED Silver certification for its Integrated Sciences Building in addition to using the Green Globes program. (see recent  bulletin story here.)  So, it is possible to use both!