A green building certification is a standard that evaluates buildings on sustainability, energy efficiency, and the conservation of natural resources. Prestigious organisations such as the US Green Building Council (USGBC) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) have developed some of the most recognised certifications. Achieving a green building certification involves meeting stringent criteria in design, construction, and sustainable operations. 

Read more: What are the Types of Green Building Certifications in Viet Nam? 

Trends in Green Buildings in Viet Nam 

Since 2021, green building development has grown rapidly in Viet Nam. This is driven by the government’s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 43.5% by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050. These efforts have pushed the real estate sector to focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Savills experts estimate that by 2025, 10% of office developments will be green buildings. 

While the initial investment in green buildings may be higher than traditional ones, they provide long-term savings on operational costs and enhance the developer's reputation. 

Green-certified buildings are also more appealing to multinational companies and those prioritising ESG commitments. Higher occupancy rates and rental prices lead to better return on investment for developers. 

Savills has been partnering with many developers as consultancy and property management agent, supporting projects in renovating and upgrading operational systems to meet the requirements for green building certifications.

Key focus areas for Green Building operational management 

1. Optimising energy efficiency:

• Utilise energy-efficient lighting systems - LED: Replace fluorescent or incandescent bulbs with LEDs to reduce energy consumption, save operational costs, and extend the lifespan of bulbs.
• Automate lighting and HVAC systems: Install motion sensors and automated control systems to reduce energy usage when unnecessary; adjust temperatures in unoccupied areas.
• Encourage the use of renewable energy: Install solar panels or other renewable energy sources to provide a portion of the building's energy used, reducing reliance on the grid. 

2. Managing water and waste:

• On-site wastewater treatment: Use advanced wastewater treatment systems to remove contaminants and create reclaimed non-potable water for irrigation, floor cleaning, and toilet flushing.
• Rainwater harvesting system: Establish rainwater harvesting and filtration systems for reuse, reducing flood risks and replenishing groundwater.
• Source separation of waste and recycling: Set up waste sorting stations in common areas and encourage occupants to sort waste correctly.

3. Improving indoor air and noise quality:

• Purify indoor air: Install CO2 monitoring systems and air filters to reduce emissions. 
• Control noise: Use soundproof glass and noise reduction equipment for HVAC systems. 

Developing a green-certificated building will require thorough research and planning processes for different project stages. Developers, management team, residents and tenants must collaborate to achieve this long-term goal. Savills is always ready to assist as a consultant or property management agent, depending on the project model and the developer's objectives. We support it in building or upgrading projects to achieve green building certifications, ensuring efficient operations, optimising costs, and enhancing both the property's value and the developer's reputation in the market. 

Contact our property management team for in-depth consultancy and support in operating your building to achieve green building certification 

Read more: 

• What Developers Need to Consider in Managing Green Buildings? - Part 1 
• What Developers Need to Consider in Managing Green Buildings? - Part 2 
• ESG Program – Pioneering Sustainability Initiative by Savills Property Management