VIEWPOINT Brazil is one of the most dynamic markets for sustainable construction. Felipe Faria discusses new behaviors among stakeholders, the rise of “constructive intelligence”, and how the cost of sustainability should be addressed. Brazil ranks among the top five countries in the world for LEED certification. What does this ranking tell us about developments in the Brazilian market? F.A. F.: Indeed, Brazil ranks among the top five markets for LEED certification in terms of number of projects. This is remarkable, considering that LEED is present in 186 countries. We currently have projects in more than 350 cities, representing approximately 74 million square meters registered for certification. Is it because our developers are seeking certification at all costs by investing more? Not really. Many of these projects have been certified without additional construction costs. What they have in common is an investment in intelligence, both in the architectural design and the engineering. What do you mean by “investment in intelligence”? F.A. F.: Investment in intelligence is based on forward planning: conducting energy and comfort assessments and simulations at the pre-design phase, adopting an integrated project design approach, and developing a holistic vision to identify all opportunities for efficiency and comfort. But this also requires effective communication, capable of translating technical data into clear messages that raise awareness and convince occupants and clients alike. At GBC Brazil, we call this the third phase of the sustainable building movement. By investing in intelligence in the architecture and engineering, we discover the technical and financial viability of implementing innovation and technologies, and maximizing performance in terms of efficiency, comfort, and sustainability. Certification then becomes a consequence. “Smart construction is not more expensive” FELIPE AUGUSTO FARIA CEO of the Green Building Council of Brazil What’s happening in the residential market? F.A. F.: The residential sector follows the same logic. We have applied the concept of this third phase, efficiency through intelligence, to housing. To this end, GBC Brazil has created its own certification: GBC CASA & CONDOMÍNIO, inspired by LEED but based on local technical standards. The goal is to change perceptions among developers, encouraging them to ask themselves not “How much does it cost?” but “What is the value of this investment?”. Can you name a project that exemplifies this change? F.A. F.: The first Platinum-certified GBC Condomínio building invested in photovoltaic panels capable of covering 100% of the energy needs of the common areas and one-third of those of the homes. Solar panels provide 70% of the hot water needs throughout the year, and rainwater harvesting allows for irrigation and cleaning without using drinking water. An interesting fact: the developer explains that green certification was not his goal. His priority was to reduce operating costs in Porto Alegre, and he succeeded. He also calculated that if each resident placed the savings made on bills in a simple investment fund, after fifty years, which is the minimum lifespan of a building, they could buy a new apartment for their child or grandchild. IDEA BAGÉ IN PORTO ALEGRE (BRAZIL). This building was the first residential complex to receive GBC Brasil Condomínio® Platinum certification. It features sustainable materials, including certified materials and environmental product declarations providing information on their life cycle and low environmental impact. In addition, cost savings through efficient use of water, solar heating sources, natural lighting, and other technologies generate added value for the property and additional income for the condominium association. 83
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