Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BOMA Go Green program?
The BOMA Go Green program is a national environmental recognition and certification program
for commercial buildings in Canada, designed, developed and administered by BOMA Canada,
and by BOMA local associations across the country. The program was developed by the industry,
for the industry. It provides the tools to enable building owners to reduce energy consumption and
operating costs, as well as improving waste management. BOMA Go Green is a comprehensive, quality
program that is unique in our industry, and it has been structured to ensure that it is neither
onerous nor costly to participate.
Why should building owners participate in Go Green?
When it comes to leasing office space, consumers are still primarily focused on matters such as
location, security, amenities, building prestige and, of course, pricing. As our society becomes
more environmentally conscious, there is a need to develop appropriate, practical performance
standards that optimize our use of finite resources. A building's environmental friendliness is
becoming a more significant factor in the overall selection process.
There are numerous incentives for building owners to enrol in the Go Green program. Overall
the program heightens environmental stewardship and encourages sound environmental practices.
The best practices model will guide owners and managers in reducing buildings' energy consumption
and operating costs. It will also lead to improved tenant safety, health, comfort, and productivity.
Other benefits include attracting new tenants, improving buildings' public image as environmentally
conscious, and providing tangible assessment as to how well a building is performing.
For those desiring or requiring benchmarking detail, the Go Green Plus program provides more in depth assessment of the criteria.
Can any asset class get Go Green certification?
All types of buildings are eligible for Go Green and Go Green Plus certification. Shopping centres, industrial properties, institutions, industrial properties and any other type of building can Go Green! The Go Green best practices apply to all types of buildings.
The Go Green Plus assessment tool is also applicable and a valuable management tool. The final report and the benchmarks are currently geared for office building assets. In partnership with our industry partners and BOMA local associations across the country, BOMA Canada will have more specialized Go Green Plus assessments available for other asset classes later this year.
What is BOMA Canada's role in the Go Green program?
BOMA Canada has chosen to take a leadership role in this initiative because it has become evident
that there is a need for an industry-designed environmental program. Originally designed and
developed by BOMA B.C., the new national program is directed and administered by BOMA Canada,
and is delivered by BOMA local associations across the country. In both the development and
administration, BOMA Canada is confident we have crafted a national program that the building
ownership will embrace and that regulatory agencies could endorse.
What is the difference between Go Green and Go Green Plus?
The Go Green program comprises two elements in which buildings and firms can choose to participate.
Go Green is a “best practices” model, whereas Go Green Plus
adds a more in-depth benchmarking tool, for firms and buildings requiring or desiring this type of program.
Using a web-based assessment tool, this aspect of the Go Green program matches the ten requirements of Go Green,
and drills further into the detail of each requirement. Data is gathered on-line to provide the
benchmarking component.
Tell me more about Go Green Certification
Tell me more about Go Green Plus Certification
Who is eligible to apply for Go Green certification?
As a voluntary program designed for existing or occupied buildings, Go Green is offered as a service by
BOMA Canada to all member and non-member commercial building owners in Canada.
Buildings of any size may apply.
Note that BOMA members will receive a reduced rate on application fees.
For how long is the certification valid?
The designation is valid for a three-year period. For Go Green - 3 years from Certified Date.
For Go Green Plus - 3 years from Application Date. Approved buildings must
resubmit an application and declaration form prior to the expiry date to renew the BOMA Go Green
designated status. Also, the BOMA Go Green status applies to the applicant building and is
independent of building ownership or management. A change in ownership or management will not
affect a buildings status, during the three-year term, as long as the declared requirements have
been maintained. A building not maintaining its acknowledged environmentally focused activities
could lose its designation at the end of the term or sooner, at the discretion of the BOMA Canada.
What recognition will a building receive once certified under the Go Green program?
BOMA Go Green recognition signage and materials will be provided by the local BOMA association for
display at or promotion for an approved building, subject to BOMA Canada guidelines. Certified buildings
will receive recognition locally through BOMA, and certified buildings are
reported nationally on the BOMA Go Green web site.
In what cities has BOMA launched the Go Green program to date ?
BOMA Canada is currently rolling out the Go Green Program across the country.
As of July 2005, the following local BOMA associations have now launched the program:
Who can I contact if I have questions about the program ?
Please contact the local BOMA Association in your region, or
BOMA Canada for more details.
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General FAQ |
Go Green FAQ |
Go Green Plus FAQ |
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