International nonprofit, Green Building Initiative (GBI), has introduced Green Globes® Journey to Net Zero™ (JNZ), a new tool designed to support Green Globes Journey to Net Zero certification. The programme enables commercial real estate owners and managers to assess energy performance and carbon emissions (CO2e) at any stage of their building’s lifecycle, helping them progress toward net-zero certification.
The JNZ programme provides a framework for evaluating a building’s Energy Use Intensity (EUI) and carbon emissions. Designed to accommodate buildings at all phases of development, it offers a pathway to net-zero energy or emissions goals.
Developed in alignment with the US Department of Energy’s definition of a zero-emissions building, the programme incorporates the Green Globes Net Zero Calculator. This tool tracks EUI and CO2e reductions using rigorous accounting principles. It also guides building owners in implementing strategies for design, operations, and renewable energy use. Additionally, it promotes collaboration with Green Globes Assessors throughout the certification process.
Vicki Worden, GBI President & CEO said “This cost-effective and user-friendly programme allows building owners to evaluate current performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and transparently demonstrate progress to stakeholders.”
Buildings can achieve two levels of recognition – recognition granted for a 50% reduction in EUI or CO2e and certification awarded for a 100% reduction in one of these measures.
The Green Globes Journey to Net Zero programme was tested between July 2023 and November 2024, involving over 100 million square feet of real estate. Participants included Class A office portfolios, multifamily housing, stadiums, and mixed-use properties. Certified projects included the Millennium Building in Washington, D.C., and Harka Headquarters in Portland, Oregon.
GBI conducted three public input periods to refine the programme, ensuring it meets industry needs and aligns with global sustainability goals.
The Green Globes Journey to Net Zero offers several benefits to building owners, including evaluation of renewable energy usage, documentation of energy and emissions reductions, support for regulatory compliance, and opportunities for enhanced property value.
To date, GBI has certified over 767 million square feet of commercial and residential real estate through its Green Globes and Guiding Principles Compliance programmes. The organisation aims to make third-party certification accessible and effective for all building types.
