COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Management
BERDE (BERDE-NC-VRD v.1.1.0 2013)
Section 1. MANAGEMENT
1.1 MN-RQ-1: Commitment
Emphasize commitment to the compliance with
natural and local laws, and generally accepted codes
of building and professional practice. Noncompliance with government mandates shall
automatically disqualify the proponent from BERDE
certification.
1.1.1 Criteria
 Laws, rules and regulations and
mandatory standards governing the
practice of building design and
construction
 Laws, rules, regulations and mandatory
standards governing components
affecting building performance, such as
water, air, materials and waste
 Local ordinances governing the location
wherein the development has been
undertaken.
1.2 MN-RQ-2: Project Team
Establish an appropriate team that will enable the
delivery of the design for the building in a
coordinated, comprehensive and sustainable
manner.
1.2.1 Criteria
 Identify members of the project teams
for design and construction, and
determine key roles for each.
1.3 MN-RQ-3: Technical Site Assessment
Establish a detailed technical site assessment to
ensure the development accounts for site conditions
and possible remedial actions required are
THE PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE
REMARKS
Section 3. Objectives
The GB Code seeks to improve the efficiency of building performance
through a framework of acceptable set of standards that will enhance
sound environmental and resource management that will counter the
harmful gases responsible for the adverse effects of climate change,
throughout the building’s life-cycle including efficient use of resources,
site selection, planning, design, construction, use, occupancy, operation
and maintenance, without significant increase in cost. This GB Code is a
set of regulations setting minimum standards for compliance and not
intended to rate buildings.
CONTRAST:
The BERDE certification is relative
to laws, rules and regulations
governing building design &
construction while the GB Code is a
policy itself and is already the
standard for compliance.
Section 4. Principles
4.1 The technical professionals, developers, contractors, property
managers and building owners involved in the planning, design,
construction and management of buildings have the opportunity and
responsibility to help government address the adverse effects of climate
change by ensuring that buildings are planned, designed, constructed,
operated and maintained to the required efficiency level
SIMILARITY:
Establishment, full involvement
and cooperation of concerned,
able and qualified individuals
regarding a project is necessary
and required from both parties to
achieve sustainability.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
considered in the design and construction. Complete
all necessary design bases and construction planning
submittals in various technical trades in relation to
the development.
1.3.1 Criteria
Identify the following information:
 Adjacent structures
 Site coordinates and site topography
 Relevant ordinances and laws in the area
 Geotechnical conditions of land and soil
 Locations of fault lines
 Liquefaction risk
 Volcanic eruption potential
 Rainfall information and capture
potential
 Hydrology and flood potential
 Ambient air temperature and relative
humidity
 Wind current behaviours
 Solar shading
 Utility companies to provide for electrical
and plumbing services
 Available power in the area
 Elevation information
 Nearest tapping point for water services
 Location of existing sewage line/s and
storm water line/s
 Nearest potential evacuation area in case
of fire
 Availability of space for fire trucks and
Fire Department connection
 Location of hydrant/s
 Plant species adpat for the area
 Existing ecological entities in the area
(e.g., fauna, body of water, etc)
 Ambient air quality
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
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Potable water quality
Sewerage water quality
Municipality classification, population
and other relevant demographic data
Identify possible hazards and risks related to construction
activities in the development based on actual site
conditions and documentations. Determine the
stormwater flow, wind flow, dust generation potential,
noise pollution potential and existing traffic management
within and around the site vicinity.
1.4 MN-RQ-4: BASIS OF DESIGN
Provide design guidance in order to reduce the
mobilization and familiarization times at the
commencement of the project, and to ensure a level
of consistency in the design and project construction
approach.
1.4.1 Criteria
Identify the following information:
 Owner’s specific requirements
 Summary of external environmental
information based on MN-RQ-3
 General site criteria
 Area specific site criteria
 List of reference standards
 Commissioning, operation and
maintenance and facilities management
 Performance targets (based on other
categories)
 Other information necessary to guide the
designers/consultants in the building
documentation
1.5 MN-RQ-5: DESIGN MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Establish a management system that clearly defines
all instructions and processess needed for the design
Section 6. Green Building Concept
Green building is the practice of adopting measures that promote
resource management efficiency and site sustainability while minimizing
the negative impact of buildings on human health and the environment.
This practice complements the conventional building design concerns of
economy, durability, serviceability and comfort.
CONTRAST:
Under BERDE Certification, it is
indicated that design is not
completely limited to a single
concept. As included in the table, a
list of criteria is required to be
identified.
Under GB Code, the concept is of
Green Building is emphasized in
terms of design.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
team to complete the design documentation of the
project.
1.5.1 Criteria
Conduct a kick-off meeting and orientation
between the design team and the client. Discuss
and identify the following:
 Components of Desgin Management and
Coordination Team
 Levels of authority
 Lines of communication and reporting
 Document and data control;
 Change/revision management; and
 Use of software.
1.6 MN-RQ-6: CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Establish a project-specific system that clearly defines
all instructions and processess that are needed for
the construction team to completely implement the
project
1.6.1 Criteria
Conduct a kick-off meeting and orientation
within the construction team. Discuss and
identify the following:
 Components of Construction Team;
 Levels of authority;
 Lines of communication and reporting;
 Construction quality assurance and
control;
 Risk management, including construction
safety and environment;
 Document control and change / revision
management; and
 Cost and schedule management.
1.7 MN-RQ-7: COORDINATED BUILDING
COMMISSIONING SYSTEM
Establish a project-specific system that would
effectively undertake the commissioning of the
development’s service systems.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Commissioning confirms that all systems and
components are designed, installed, tested and can
be operated and maintained according to the Project
Owner’s operational requirements.
1.7.1 Criteria
Provide direction for the commissioning process
during construction, resolution for issues such as
scheduling, roles and responsibilities, lines of
communication and reporting,
approvals, and coordination.
Identify the following information:
 Project data; including project name,
address, owner/developer, building type,
area, target completion date, and brief
description of the building;
 Basic and salient features of the systems
(to be) commissioned;
 Individual backgrounds and
qualifications, reporting lines, and
functional responsibilities of the
commissioning team; and
 General Commissioning Management
Plan and Protocol.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
1.8 MN-PT-1: BERDE CONSULTANT
Promote and encourage the integrated design
process, and streamline in the application and
certification process through the employment of
BERDE consultants.
1.8.1 Criteria
A participant of the project team with sufficient
knowledge in building sustainability principles should
have undergone the BERDE Professional Basic
Training Course, passed the examination, and is a
Certified BERDE Professional in good standing OR is a
green building professional certified and licensed by
an accredited training institution in compliance with
ISO 17021: Conformity assessment -- Requirements
for bodies providing audit and certification of
management systems.
1.9 MN-PT-2 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION
Involve the relevant stakeholders materially affected
by the project, such as potential occupants and unit
owners, businesses, residents and local government
in the design process.
1.9.1 Criteria
Conduct a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) to
customize the project as well as provide a
sense of ownership. Discuss and identify the
following information through the FGD:
 Members of the local community and
appropriate stakeholders
 Functionality, development quality and
impact (including aesthetics) on the
inherent community of the development
and the local community
 User satisfaction / productivity issues
Section 19. GREEN BUILDING PERMIT PROCESS
The Office of the Building Official shall review the building permit
application for Green Buildings as prepared by the design
professionals in compliance with the requirements of the GB Code and
the various referral codes in accordance with Rule 3 of the NBC.
CONTRAST:
Under BERDE, an intergrated
design process is achieved through
a BERDE consultant who
underwent the necessary steps to
be qualified.
Under GB Code, Green Building
permit is achieved through
application to be checked by the
Office of the Building Official.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE

Management and operational
implications
 Maintenance resources / burdens
 Different examples of vertical residential
developments;
 Local traffic / transport impact
 Social issues
 Opportunities for shared use of facilities
 Issues to be resolved and opportunities
to be included in the design
 Translation of discussed issues and
developed solutions in the design and
construction
Implement strategies incorporating results from
the FGD.
1.10 MN-PT-3: DESIGN CHARRETTE
Identify realistic and cost-effective sustainable
measures that can be implemented in the new
residential development.
1.10.1 Criteria
 Conduct workshop/s involving the
residential development owner, related
designers, and commissioning personnel
that highlights all possible ideas that will
affect the design, construction and
operation of the development. Inform
and educate charrette participants about
energy and environmental implications in
design and construction so that they
could effectively use BERDE in defining a
high performance residential
development.
 Identify economically viable and doable
strategies that could be implemented to
attain the desired BERDE rating.
 Document the charrette both as a
training tool for future charrettes and as
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Land Use and
Ecology
a source of information to the residential
development owner, potential housing
unit owners and design team.
1.11 MN-PT-4: SECURITY
Acknowledge effective design measures that will
reduce the opportunity and fear of crime in the
development.
1.11.1 Criteria
Consult with local police, barangay officials, or a
credible security consultant on mapping out the
opportunity for crime occurrences. The final
design should reflect the identified measures
based on the consultation conducted
1.12 MN-PT-5: SUSTAINABILITY COMMITMENT
Commit to the delivery of the project’s contribution
to the social, environmental, and economic
dimensions of sustainability, or the triple bottom line.
1.12.1 Criteria
 Contribute to employment within the
vicinity, education, housing, and
improvement of conditions in formal and
informal settlements; and support
human rights and gender equality.
 Contribute to the improvement of the
environmental dimension through the
provision of programs to conserve and
enhance water sources, land resources,
and air quality.
 Contribute to the betterment of the
economic dimension through the
improvement of the local economy, and
the increase in telecommunication
facilities, research, and development.
Section 2. Land Use and Ecology
2.1 LE-RQ-1: CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES POLLUTION
14.1 Site / Ground Preparation and Earthworks
CONTROL
A. General
SIMILARITY:
It is indicated in both BERDE and
the GB Code that there are
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Reduce watercourse and air pollution brought about
by construction activities.
2.1.1 Criteria
 Implement measures that prevent
erosion during construction brought
about by stormwater, construction
wastewater unoff, construction related
sediments from reaching receiving
watercourses, and air pollution brought
about by dust and articulate matter.
2.2 LE-PT-1: LAND REUSE
Use land that has been previously developed, and
avoid the use of undeveloped land for building.
2.2.1 Criteria
 Locate at least 75% of the development
on an area previously used for
institutional, industrial, commercial or
residential applications for the last 20
years ;
AND/OR
 Employ remediation measures if at least
25% of the land is proven to be
contaminated as per ASTM E1903-97:
Standard Guide for Environmental Site
Assessments Phase II: Environmental Site
Assessment Process.
2.3 LE-PT-2: PROTECTION AND IMPROVEMENT OF
ECOLOGICAL FEATURES
Protect and improve existing ecological features in
the site starting from the design stage.
2.3.1 Criteria
Site clearing, grading and excavation shall be planned at the start of
construction to mitigate pollution caused by erosion and sedimentation
taking into consideration existing endemic foliage as regulated by the
DENR. All existing utilities and water bodies and waterways shall be
protected and shall not be disturbed.
B. Requirements
Measures for site protection shall be in place before the start of
construction.
i.
Building site erosion and sedimentation control plan that
outlines measures to be applied to prevent soil that can runoff at the natural bodies of water, causing water pollution.
ii.
Additional measures to mitigate the effect of pollution and
safety on construction conforming to Rule XI of the NBC
iii.
Storm water collection management plan iv. Structures or
facilities for storm water collection
measures to be taken to prevent
site pollution while preparing the
site for construction.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
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Provide adequate protection for all
existing features of ecological value
surrounding the construction zone and
site boundary area from damage,
particularly during construction. Features
may include trees of significant ecological
value as declared by the DENR - Forest
Management Bureau, and natural
watercourses and wetland areas.
 Provide additional native plant species;
and improve the site ecology through
rehabilitation of natural watercourses
and wetland areas.
2.4 LE-PT-3: PRO-LOCAL BIODIVERSITY OPEN SPACE
Promote local biodiversity by having a high ratio of
open space-to-development footprint.
CRITERIA
 Employ a high ratio of open space-to-development
footprint to promote local biodiversity.
 Provide at least two (2) plant species in the
development that are native or adapted.
 Provide vegetated areas to cover 25% to 50% of
the total site area, and the total area of the
building footprint (including access roads and
parking) does not cover majority of the total site
area.
2.5 LE-PT-4: HEAT ISLAND EFFECT: NON-ROOF
Minimize impacts of thermal gradient differences
between hardscapes on the building’s microclimate.
2.5.1 Criteria
 Minimize the heat absorption of 50% of
the total roof area of all buildings and
covered common areas by using
vegetated roofing
OR
14.2 Open Space Utilization
A. General
The inclusion of green areas or landscaped areas for indigenous or
adaptable species of grass, shrubs and trees will help in providing more
permeable surface for the building development’s open space and thus
allow the re-charging of natural ground water reservoir, control storm
water surface run-off, cool the building surroundings, and provide indoor
to outdoor connectivity for the building occupants.
B. Requirements
A minimum of fifty percent (50%) of the required Unpaved Surface Area
(USA), as required in Rule VII and VIII of the NBC, shall be vegetated with
indigenous and adaptable species.
10.3 BUILDING ENVELOPE COLOR
A. General
Light-colored building envelope, especially the roof areas which are the
most vulnerable, can reduce heat transfer from the outside to the inside
of the building by having surfaces with high Solar Reflectance Index (SRI).
B. Requirements
Building metal roof surfaces shall either be colored white or have a
minimum Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) of 70. See Table 5.
SIMILARITY:
Both BERDE and the GB Code
specifies a need for open space and
the integration of green areas to
the the development footprint.
CONTRAST:
Under BERDE, vegetated areas can
cover up to 25% (twenty-five
percent) to 50% (fifty-percent) of
the total site area.
Under GB Code, it is a requirement
to have a minimum of 50% (fifty
percent) for the integration of
green areas.
SIMILARTY/IES & CONTRASTS:
Both BERDE Parameter 2.5 and
PGB Code Section 10.3 had
provided provisions for heat
absorption.
- BERDE Parameter directly
address the heat absorption
of the building.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE

Minimize the heat absorption of 75% of
the total roof area of all buildings and
covered common areas by using
strategies such as use of open-grid
pavement system with vegetated
roofing.
2.6 LE-PT-6: FLOOD RISK MINIMIZATION
In order to achieve this point, the project site’s
lowest elevation should not be more than 1.5m
below the highest elevation of the flood level shown
in the Flood Mapping Studies of National Mapping
and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) and
the Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR).
WATER
Locate the development in an area with low flooding
risk, or adopt measures to reduce the impact of
flooding.
2.6.1 Criteria
Implement adaptive measures if project is
located in flood prone areas. These may include
the following:
 Raise the main floor level at least 0.60
meters above the highest elevation of
the flood level
 Provide elevated bridges and walkways
 Provide standby inflatable rafts
 Implement two (2) other adaptive
measures which address the following:
o Evacuation
o Rescue operation
Section 3. WATER
Table 5. Solar Reflectance Index Values Of Basic Colored Coatings
-
Under PGB Code, it introduces
Solar Reflectance Index as a
tool to reduce heat transfer.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
3.1 WT-RQ-1: EFFLUENT QUANTITY AND QUALITY
MONITORING
Monitor and manage sewage discharging outside the
building to minimize the effects on the local
environment.
3.1.1 Criteria
 For projects with a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP)
or STP Provider, consider the location of STP and
existing sewer line, and provide a
tapping/sampling point (manhole).
 For projects without access to an existing sewer
system or STP provider:
o For office buildings, comply with the
minimum requirements as specified in the
Clean Water Act, its Implementing Rules
and Regulations, and relevant local
government requirements. Employ effluent
treatment strategies, such as bioaugmentation /remediation, 3-chambered
septic tank, or reed bed system. Consider
semi-annual monitoring by credible third
party.
o For establishments with anticipated high
volume and low quality effluent discharge,
allocate a waste sampling point for each
building structure discharging sewage
through sewage pipeline, and install a flow
meter in the waste monitoring point
pipeline.
3.2 WT-PT-1: WATER SUB-METERING
Monitor water consumption and manage water
efficiency.
3.2.1 Criteria
 Install a main water meter for the entire
development.
 Ensure that main water meters and sub-meters
are calibrated, and regular calibration schedules
11.1 WATER FIXTURES
A. General
Efficient water fixtures include faucets, showerheads and water closets
that use less water in order to perform the same function of cleaning as
effectively as standard models. Water efficiency is an important aspect,
especially as fresh water resources start getting depleted at a rate
faster than they are replenished. Use of efficient plumbing fixtures,
sensors, auto control valves, aerators, flow control and pressure-
[11.1 WATER FIXTURES]
SIMILARITY:
Both BERDE and GB Code
acknowledge the requirement for
efficient water fixtures.
CONTRAST:
GB Code is more specific regarding
the water fixture requirements.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
according to manufacturer’s specifications are
documented.
reducing devices, wherever possible, can result in significant reduction in
water
consumption.
B. Requirements
Applicable buildings shall comply with the requirements as shown in
Table 13.
Table 13 Water Fixture Performance Requirements
Source: Prescribed Requirements, IFC Philippine Green Building Code
Project, May 2013
3.3 WT-PT-2: POTABLE WATER CONSUMPTION
REDUCTION
Minimize the volume of water demand and effluent
discharge.
3.3.1 Criteria
Reduce potable water usage by installing water
recycling technologies and water-efficient plumbing
fixtures.
11.2.2 Water Recycling
A. General
Recycled water from Sewage Treatment Plants (STP) shall be reused for
non-potable purposes.
B. Requirements
The recycled water produced on site shall be reused for non-potable
purposes such as toilet flushing, irrigation and cooling
towers, through a distinct and separate piping system from the potable
water supply system
[11.2.2 WATER RECYCLING]
CONTRAST:
BERDE criteria is generalized, while
GB Code indicates specific
requirements for water recycling.
3.4 WT-PT-3: EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION
Reduce the use of potable water resources for
landscape irrigation.
3.4.1 Criteria
Minimize the use of potable water by at least 50%
through rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling,
plant species factor, or irrigation efficiency.
11.2.1 Rainwater Harvesting
A. General
Rainwater is one of the purest sources of water available. Rainwater from
roofs and hardscape must be collected and reused for non-potable
purposes.
B. Requirements
i. Minimum storage tanks size (in cu.m) shall be calculated by dividing
the building footprint area by 75.
ii. Collected water shall be used for non-potable purposes such as
toilet flushing, irrigation and cooling towers
11.2.2 Water Recycling
SIMILARITY:
Both BERDE and the GB Code
acknowlege the use of non-potable
water for secondary use.
CONTRAST:
Under BERDE, it is specifically
indicated that potable water use is
limited to at least 50% through
various water harvesting, recycling,
and conservation methods.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
ENERGY
Section 4. Energy
4.1 EN-PT-1: ENERGY SUB-METERING
Facilitate the monitoring of energy consumption of
amenities and common areas.
4.1.1 Criteria
Provide methods of sub-metering for the following
systems, at a minimum:
 Space Cooling
 Hot Water
 Fans (major)
 Lighting
 Other major energy-consuming items where
appropriate (e.g. lifts, escalators)
4.2 EN-PT-2: ENERGY EFFICIENT LIGHTING
Specify the use of energy-efficient light fittings, fixtures,
and luminaires; and enforce policies that promote their
usage.
4.2.1 Criteria
 Install light fittings, fixtures, and luminaires with
a minimum luminous efficacy of 80 lumens per
watt in all amenities and common areas. Light
fixtures and fittings must be compliant to the
pertinent Philippine National Standards (PNS) on
Lighting Products, and lighting power indices or
densities must meet the minimum standards
stated in the Department of Energy Guidelines
for Energy Conserving Design of Buildings.
A. General
Recycled water from Sewage Treatment Plants (STP) shall be reused for
non-potable purposes.
B. Requirements
The recycled water produced on site shall be reused for non-potable
purposes such as toilet flushing, irrigation and cooling towers, through a
distinct and separate piping system from the potable water supply
system
Under GB Code, water recycling
methods specifically for irrigation
use or non-potable water use, only
two specific methods are
identified, via rainwater harvesting
with the corresponding tank size
requirements, and water recycling
through STP.
10.6.2 Daylight Controlled Lighting Systems
General
Building interior perimeter zones exposed to daylight generally do not
require artificial lighting during the day. However, suboptimal design and
operation of the building results in use of artificial lighting when not
required.
CONTRAST:
Under BERDE, there is an indicated
lumens per watt measure, and that
minimum standards for power
indices or densities are to be
followed.
Under GB Code, only the power
density is mentioned, but with
specific occupancy/area and
corresponding allowable maximum
values.
Photoelectric sensors connected to luminaires help in dimming or
switching off lamps that do not require to be operated due to presence
of adequate daylight.
Requirements
Applicable buildings shall comply with the following:
i.
Lighting fixtures within the daylight zone shall be controlled
with photoelectric sensors with an auto on-off basis or
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Enforce a building policy for unit tenants that promote
the usage of energy-efficient light fittings, fixtures, and
luminaries.
ii.
continual dimming. The photoelectric sensor shall be located
approximately at half (½) the depth of daylight zone.
If occupancy sensors are installed in the daylight zone, the
occupancy sensor shall override the photoelectric sensor
during non-occupancy period.
10.6.3 Lighting Power Density (LPD)
A. General
Limitation of LPD will help to design the lighting system in the most
efficient way and reduce the lighting and cooling load in the buildings.
The maximum allowed LPD for each space type is specified in Table 11.
B. Requirements
All applicable building types shall comply with the LPD limits in the 2010
PSVARE Standards, as shown in Table 11.
Table 11. Maximum Allowed LPD (Lighting Power Density)
Source 2010 ASHRAE - PSVARE Standards
Above requirement excludes parking and exterior lighting
4.3 NATURAL VENTILATION
Take advantage of the natural or passive means of
ventilation inside the building by using the natural flow of
external air around the building where appropriate.
Incorporate natural ventilation wherever possible to
minimize the cooling load required and save energy.
4.3.1 Criteria
Use natural ventilation techniques in 50% of regularly
occupied ventilated spaces, in accordance to the
Source : ASHRAE - IESNA 90.1
10.2 NATURAL VENTILATION
A. General
This measure will give building occupants the flexibility and opportunity
to use natural ventilation for free cooling and fresh air in regularly
occupied spaces. This measure will limit the tendency to create glasssealed box type buildings. Size of each room
and space shall be consistent with the occupancy load of the NBC.
B. Requirements
SIMILARITY:
Both BERDE and the GB Code have
provisions for Natural Ventilation.
CONTRAST:
Under BERDE, this technique
should be used in 50% of regularly
occupied spaces.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE)
Applications Manual 10: Natural Ventilation in NonDomestic Buildings.
4.4 EN-PT-4: ON-SITE RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION
Contribute to the reduction of energy sourced from
non-renewable sources.
4.4.1 Criteria
Offset five percent (5%) of the building’s total energy
demand through the installation of renewable energy
technologies in the building, such as solar panels, wind
energy, hydro energy, and other renewable energy
harnessing systems.
4.5 EN-PT-5: ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENT
Document reduction of energy use from a baseline of 400
kWh/m 2 per year for buildings operating 24 hours per
day
4.5.1 Criteria
Implement at least one of the following items for energy
consumption reduction of 12.5% from baseline:
 Active methods using energy efficient technology
for equipment such as:
o Air-conditioning (e.g. higher energy
efficiency rating (EER), chilled beams,
variable air volume (VAV), equipment of
variable speed drive (VSD));
o Elevators (e.g., VSD; sleep or stand-by
mode);
o Escalators (e.g., using motion sensors);
and other strategies.
 Energy efficient lighting
 Co-generation
 Passive methods including energy efficient
building envelope design
i. Operable windows or balcony door shall be provided in regularly
occupied spaces. The size of the opening shall be equal to at least ten
percent (10%) of the floor area of regularly occupied spaces.
ii. All operable windows shall be provided with safety features for
protection against strong winds, water penetration and protection for
building occupants including child safety and security.
Under GB Code, there is no
indicated provision regarding the
scope of application of natural
ventilation, however, what is
indicated is the size & spefic safety
features.
10.5.3 Variable Speed Drives and High Efficiency Motors
General
Variable Speed Drive (VSD) describes the equipment used to control the
speed of machinery by changing the frequency of the motor that is being
operated. Where process conditions demand adjustment of flow from a
pump or fan, varying the speed of the drive may save energy compared
with other techniques for flow control.
[BERDE Parameter 4.5 & PGB Code
Section 10.5.3]
SIMILARITY/IES:
Both BERDE and PGB Code pertains
to the use of equipment for energy
reduction, specifically variable
speed drives.
Requirements
i.
All motors for mechanical equipment over five (5) kW shall
be provided with variable speed drive and high efficiency
motors in accordance with Table 10.
ii.
All motors of cooling towers shall be provided with variable
speed and high efficiency motors.
[BERDE Parameter 4.5 & PGB Code
10.6.5]
SIMILARITY:
Under BERDE, it is specified that
there should be an implementation
of at least one of the given items
for energy consumption reduction.
Under the GB Code, there are
specific energy-efficient systems
mentioned with corresponding
requirements.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE

Use of carbon dioxide sensors for controlling air
volume of fresh air supply in regularly occupied
spaces
All of the above methods should comply with the
minimum efficiency requirement of the airconditioning
system as shown in the DOE Guidelines on Energy
Conserving Design of Buildings.
iii.
All motors for domestic pumps shall have high efficiency
motors as indicated in Table 10.
Meet air-conditioning efficiency levels specified in
ASHRAE Std. 90.1 – 2004 for airconditioning systems.
Comply with indoor air quality standards specified in the
Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS)
10.6.5 Elevators and Escalators / Moving Ramps / Walkways
General
Escalators / Moving Ramps / Walkways must be fitted with controls to
automatically reduce speed or stop when no traffic is detected.
Elevators must be fitted with mechanisms to reduce energy demand.
Requirements
Applicable buildings shall comply with the following:
i.
Escalators / Moving Ramps / Walkways
 Escalators / Moving Ramps / Walkways shall be fitted
with automated controls to reduce to a slower speed
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
4.6 EN-PT-6: ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDING ENVELOPE
Design the building envelope considering heat gain
into the interiors for all spaces and low air infiltration in
air conditioned spaces.
4.6.1 Criteria
 Comply with ASHRAE Standard189 – Normative
Appendix A, Table A-1 Building Envelope
when no activity has been detected for a maximum
period of one and a half (1-1/2) minutes and
duration may be adjusted depending on the demand.
 The escalator / moving ramps / walkways shall
automatically be put on a standby mode when no
activity has been detected for a maximum period of
five (5) minutes and duration may be adjusted
depending on the demand
 These escalators / moving ramps / walkways shall be
designed with energy efficient soft start technology.
Activation of reduced speed, power off and power on
modes shall be done through sensors installed in the
top or bottom landing areas.
ii.
Elevators
 Elevators shall be provided with controls to reduce
the energy demand. To meet this requirement, the
following features must be incorporated:
- Use of Alternating Current (AC) Variable
Voltage and Variable Frequency (VVVF) drives
on non-hydraulic elevators
- Use of energy efficient lighting and display
lighting in the elevator car shall have an
average lamp efficacy, across all fittings in the
car, of more than 55 lumens / watt
- Lighting shall switch off after the elevator has
been inactive for a maximum period of five (5)
minutes
- The elevators shall operate in a stand-by
condition during off-peak periods
10.1.2 Glass Properties
General
Compared to wall assemblies, glazing transfers more heat and hence, it is
ideal to reduce the amount of glazing with respect to the wall in order to
reduce internal heat gains. The requirement of Window to Wall Ratio
(WWR) needs to be balanced with the amount of daylight coming
through the glazed area. Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is used to
SIMILARITY:
Both BERDE and the GB Code
acknowledge heat transfer in
connection with the roof area.
CONTRAST:
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Submittals for Climate Zone 1 (Very Hot, Humid)
for building envelope heat transfer properties.

Comply with ASHRAE 90.1 for building envelope
of air-conditioned spaces, with air leakage at 2
L/s-m2 at 75 Pa in accordance with ASTM E779 or
an equivalent approved method.

Meet properties of a continuous air barrier
characteristic for the building envelope, as
specified in ASHRAE Standard No.89 – Normative
Appendix B, Prescriptive Continuous Air Barrier.
Ensure that all connections are sealed.

Comply with provisions from the Guidelines on
Energy Conserving Design of Buildings of DOE, as
follows:
determine the amount of solar heat admitted through the glass divided
by the total solar radiation incident on the glass. Visible Light
Transmittance (VLT) is used to determine the amount of light transmitted
through the glass.
Requirements
Window Wall Ratio (WWR) shall be balanced with SHGC to maintain
flexibility in design. To further describe, the higher the designed building
WWR, the lower the required SHGC in glass windows shall be and viseversa. This does not, however, remove the option for building owners to
apply windows with low SHGC for building with low WWR.
i.
The size of the opening (with or without glass) shall be in
accordance with the NBC. For each WWR value, the SHGC
and VLT shall be in accordance with Table 2 – SHGC and VLT
for different WWR.
o
The Overall Thermal Transfer Value (OTTV) for
the exterior walls of buildings as well as roofs
shall not exceed 45 W/m2– for buildings w/ 175
kW cooling load or greater
Maximum Thermal Transmittance Values of roofs (in
W/m2 K):
Light
under 50 kg/m2 0.50 (A/C) 0.8 (non-A/C)
Meduim 50-230 kg/m2
0.80 (A/c) 1.1 (non-A/c)
Heavy
over 230 kg/m2 1.20 (A/C) 1.5 (non-A/C)
ii.
For intermediate values of D/H or D/W, the lower figure of
correction factor should be used as stated in Tables 3 Correction factor for each horizontal overhang shading
projection and Table 4 – Correction factor for each vertical fin
shading projection.
Under BERDE, measures for
vegetated roofing are indicated to
combat heat absorption.
Under GB Code, measures
regarding heat transfer via roofing
is limited to colors of roofing with
corresponding Solar Reflectance
Index Values.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
iii.
4.7 EN-PT-7: ENERGY EFFICIENT EQUIPMENT
Use energy-efficient air-conditioning equipment
complying with the provisions in the DOE Guidelines on
Energy Conserving Design of Buildings.
4.7.1 Criteria
Use energy-efficient air-conditioning equipment
complying with the provisions in the DOE Guidelines on
Energy Conserving Design of Buildings.
Table 1: Minimum Performance Rating of Various Air
Conditioning System
D is the depth of the shading device as projected from the
building exterior wall and H or W is the height or distance of
the bottom sill of the window from the bottom of the
shading device as show in Figure 1.
Shading which is not attached to windows or placed on a wall with no
window should not be counted.
10.5.1 Air Conditioning System
A. General
Air conditioning typically accounts for more than fifty percent (50%) of
total electricity costs in a centrally air conditioned building. Hence, the
efficiency of an air conditioning system is of prime importance. The heart
of the air conditioning system is the cooling Jsystem, typically chillers in
large buildings and is important to procure an efficient cooling system.
B. Requirements
The cooling equipment shall meet or exceed the minimum efficiency
requirements as indicated in Tables 7 and 8.
Table 7. Electrically Operated Unitary Air Conditioners and Condensing
Units
SIMILARITY:
Both BERDE and the GB Code
acknowledge the use of energyefficient equipment and both have
specific provisions regarding power
measure, efficiencies, etc. GB Code
has more concise requirements for
the equipment specified.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Source: 2010 PSVARE Standards
Table 8. Water Chiller Packages – Minimum Efficiency Requirements
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
4.8 EN-PT-8: BUILDING AUTOMATION SYSTEMS
Confirm the use automation systems to monitor and
control energy consuming equipment.
4.8.1 Criteria
 Install automatic controls and performance
monitoring, and electronically document
significant building services systems. These will
serve as bases for real-time informed decisions
concerning operations and maintenance.
 Establish an indicator of overall power
consumption and consumption of significant
loads.
Source: 2010 PSVARE Standards
10.6.2 Daylight Controlled Lighting System
A. General
Building interior perimeter zones exposed to daylight generally do not
require artificial lighting during the day. However, suboptimal design and
operation of the building results in use of artificial lighting when not
required.
Photoelectric sensors connected to luminaires help in dimming or
switching off lamps that do not require to be operated due to
presence of adequate daylight.
B. Requirements
Applicable buildings shall comply with the following:
i. Lighting fixtures within the daylight zone shall be controlled with
photoelectric sensors with an auto on-off basis or continual
dimming. The photoelectric sensor shall be located approximately at half
(½) the depth of daylight zone.
ii. If occupancy sensors are installed in the daylight zone, the
occupancy sensor shall override the photoelectric sensor during
non-occupancy period.
10.6.4 Occupancy Sensors for Lighting Control
A. General
SIMILARITY:
Both BERDE and GB Code has
indicated provisions for automated
systems.
CONTRAST:
The GB Code is more specific in
automation systems, with concise
requirements.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Occupancy sensors linked to lighting shall be installed in areas with
variable occupancy.
B. Requirements
Applicable buildings shall comply with the following:
i. In order to limit the use of electricity in unoccupied areas of
buildings, occupancy sensors linked to lighting (except for
emergency and security lighting) shall be installed in the following areas
with variable occupancy:
- corridors
- private offices
- storage rooms
- common toilets
- meeting rooms
- stairways
- other similar areas
ii. For covered car parks, minimum of sixty percent (60%) of the
lighting must be controlled by the occupancy sensors.
ENERGY
Section 5. TRANSPORTATION
5.1 TR-PT-1: BICYCLE RIDER AMENITIES
Encourage the use of bicycles as an alternative form of
transport by incorporating cyclist facilities in the design.
5.1.1 Criteria
 The project’s vicinity must have existing bicycle
lanes of at least 1.20 meters wide without gutter.
 Connect offsite bicycle lanes to the project site
and provide bicycle lanes with direct access to
the bicycle storage facilities.
 Provide secure bicycle parking and/or storage
within 200 meters of a building entrance for 5%
or more of Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) building
occupants.
 Meet the building occupancy requirements as
reflected in the National Building Code of the
Philippines.
5.2 TR-PT-2: LOW EMISSION, FUEL EFFICIENT AND LOW
EMITTING VEHICLES
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Incentivize building users by providing preferred
parking for fuelefficient and low-emitting vehicles.
5.2.1 Criteria
Provide preferred parking for fuel efficient and lowemitting
vehicles such as hybrid vehicles, liquefied
petroleum gas (LPG)
and compressed natural gas (CNG) powered
vehicles, electric
powered vehicles, and vehicles used for employee
carpool and
vanpool. Preferred parking provisions for these
vehicles should be
at least 3% of the total vehicle parking capacity.
5.3 TR-PT-3: PARKING
Encourage use of alternative transport systems to
reduce related emissions and congestions, and reduce
hardscapes by ensuring allocated parking areas/slots do
not exceed National Building Code of the Philippines or
local government unit (LGU) requirements.
5.3.1 Criteria
Do not exceed requirements for parking capacities as
reflected in The National building Code of the Philippines
or LGU Building Code, whichever is more stringent.
5.4 TR-PT-4: PROXIMITY TO KEY ESTABLISHMENTS
Reduce the need for extended travel and multiple
trips by locating the development in close proximity to
local amenities.
5.4.1 Criteria
Situate the building no farther than 250m from 10 basic
services, accessible by pedestrian lanes and sidewalks,
measured from a regular entrance/exit of the building.
Such key establishments include:
 Bank
 Place of Worship
 Convenience Grocery (Sari-Sari Store)
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE



Health Center
Fire Station
Building for Ecologically Responsive Design
Excellence
 BERDE for New Construction: Vertical Residential
Development v.1.1.0 (2013) Page 29 of 47
 Parlor / Barber Shop
 Laundry/Dry Cleaners
 Library
 Park
 Pharmacy
 Post Office
 Restaurant (Carinderia / Turo-turo)
 School
 Supermarket (Wet Market)
 Theater/Movie House
 Fitness Center
 Day Care Center
 Hardware
 Medical or Dental Office (NOTE: Medical offices
offering exclusively aesthetic
 services do not qualify)
 Barangay Hall
5.5 TR-PT-5: PUBLIC ACCESS:
Contribute to ease of people movement within the
vicinity.
5.5.1 Criteria
Implement design strategies that allow people to pass
within the building premises and grounds to provide
more options for pedestrian movement. Ensure due
consideration is given for building security.
5.6 TR-PT-6: CONTRIBUTION TO PUBLIC TRANSPORT
AMENITIES
Confirm provision of amenities within the site for ease of
public transport.
5.6.1 Criteria
Provide the following public transport amenities:
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE

Indoor
Environment
Quality
Covered walkways connecting the building to
transport waiting areas
 Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Waiting Areas
PUV Terminals
5.7 TR-PT-7: PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION ACCESS
Reduce pollution and land development impacts from
automobile use.
5.7.1 Criteria
 Locate project within 500 meters walking
distance (measured from a main building
entrance) of an existing or planned and funded
commuter rail or light rail.
AND/OR
 Locate project within 500 meters walking
distance (measured from a main building
entrance) of 1 or more stops for 2 or more public,
campus, or private bus lines usable by building
occupants.
AND/OR
 Locate project within 250 meters walking
distance (measured from a main building
entrance) of 1 or more public jeepney, van, or
AUV stops for 2 or more public, jeepney, van, or
AUV routes usable by building occupants.
 If there is no PUJ or AUV stops established by any
national or local transportation authority, locate
the project within 250 meters walking distance
(measured from the building’s main entrance) of
1 or more PUJ or AUV routes for 2 or more PUJ or
AUV routes usable by building occupants.
6 INDOOR ENVIRONMENT QUALITY
6.1 EQ-RQ-1: LIGHTING LEVELS
Ensure adequate lighting is provided in interior spaces
based on activity.
CRITERIA
SECTION 10. ENERGY EFFICIENCY
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Specify minimum illuminance (lux) levels in all internal
areas of the building in accordance with the DOLE
Department Order No. 13, OSHS Standards, and the DOE
Guidelines for Energy Conserving Design of Buildings.
6.2 EQ-RQ-2: THERMAL LEVELS
Ensure that appropriate thermal comfort levels are
achieved.
CRITERIA
Calculate cooling load based on projected load submittals
to identify thermal comfort levels.
POTENTIAL INNOVATION POINTS
Project may obtain one (1) point for Innovation in
Performance for the use of automatic lighting controls
such as occupancy, daylight, or motion sensors.
10.6.2 Daylight Controlled Lighting Systems
General
Building interior perimeter zones exposed to daylight generally do not
require artificial lighting during the day. However, suboptimal design and
operation of the building results in use of artificial lighting when not
required.
Photoelectric sensors connected to luminaires help in dimming or
switching off lamps that do not require to be operated due to presence
of adequate daylight.
Requirements
Applicable buildings shall comply with the following:
iii.
Lighting fixtures within the daylight zone shall be controlled
with photoelectric sensors with an auto on-off basis or
continual dimming. The photoelectric sensor shall be located
approximately at half (½) the depth of daylight zone.
iv.
If occupancy sensors are installed in the daylight zone, the
occupancy sensor shall override the photoelectric sensor
during non-occupancy period.
10.6.3 Lighting Power Density (LPD)
General
Limitation of LPD will help to design the lighting system in the most
efficient way and reduce the lighting and cooling load in the buildings.
The maximum allowed LPD for each space type is specified in Table 11
Maximum Allowed LPD. The IIEE Manual on the Practice of Efficient
Lighting System can be a reference for the design of building lighting
systems.
Requirements
All applicable building types shall comply with the LPD limits in the 2010
PSVARE Standards, as shown in Table 11: Maximum Allowed LPD.
SIMILIRATY/IES & CONTRAST/S:
BERDE Parameter 6.2 and The
Philippine Green Building Code
Section 10.6.2 both address the
use of automatic control
mentioning sensors:
- Photoelectric sensors for
Philippine Green Building
Code (PGBC) as a
requirement.
- Motion sensors for BERDE as
a potential innovation point.
BERDE Parameter 6.2 and The
Philippine Green Building Code
Section 10.6.3 both mentioned
cooling load.
- BERDE indicates calculation
of cooling load to identify
thermal comfort levels
- PGB Code briefly mentioned
cooling load as a subject to
reduce by the Limitation of
Lighting Power Density (LPD)
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Table 12
(Note: Table 12 is not labelled in the Philippine Green Building Code)
6.3 EQ-PT-1: EXTERNAL VIEW AND DAYLIGHTING
Connect the building occupants with the outdoor
environment and provide good levels of daylight for
building users.
10.6.1 Daylight Provision
General
Building should be planned and designed to maximize the use of natural
light so to reduce the use of artificial illumination.
CRITERIA
Provide direct access to outdoor views to 75% of interior
spaces, or access to daylighting to 50% of interior spaces.
Establish maximum sight lines relative to normal working
positions.
Requirements
All regularly occupied spaces inside the building shall have a view of any
combination of the following features that can allow daylight into the
room space:
i.
Window
ii.
Light shelf
iii.
Clerestory
iv.
Skylight
v.
Light monitor / light scoop
Other devices that can allow daylight inside.
6.4 EQ-PT-2: ILLUMINATION CONTROL
10.6.4 Occupancy Sensors for Lighting Control
General
SIMILARITY/IES:
BERDE Parameter 6.3 and
Philippine Green Building Code
both address the need for
daylighting.
CONTRAST:
- BERDE tackles daylighting
with external view to
establish maximum sight lines
relative to normal working
positions
- PGB Code discussed the
maximization of natural light
to reduce the use of artificial
illumination by requiring the
use of a combination of
features mentioned in section
10.6.1.
SIMILARITY/IES:
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Implement lighting design practices that reduce the
unnecessary lighting of spaces.
Occupancy sensors linked to lighting shall be installed in areas with
variable occupancy.
CRITERIA
Allow separate occupant control of lighting in the
following areas, where applicable:
 Office and circulation spaces
o In office areas, zones of no more than
four workplaces
o Separately zone and control workstations
adjacent to windows/atria and other
building areas.
 Zone presentation and audience areas in seminar
and lecture rooms.
 Separately zone stacks, reading, and counter
areas in library spaces.
Requirements
Applicable buildings shall comply with the following:
i.
In order to limit the use of electricity in unoccupied areas of
buildings, occupancy sensors linked to lighting (except for
emergency and security lighting) shall be installed in the
following areas with variable occupancy:
- Corridors
- private offices
- storage rooms
- common toilets
- meeting rooms
- stairways
- other similar areas
Use dimmers to modulate illumination levels as needed.
For covered car parks, minimum of sixty percent (60%) of the lighting
must be controlled by the occupancy sensors.
6.5 EQ-PT-3: GLARE CONTROL
Allow occupants to control glare in occupied areas by
avoiding contrasts on ceiling, wall and floor surfaces, and
by providing adequate means of control relative to the
glare source.
CRITERIA
Install an occupant-controlled shading system on all
windows, glazed doors and roof lights in regularly
occupied spaces;
OR
Comply with the corresponding reflectance values (in
percentage) for surfaces:
Ceilings
80% – 92%
Walls
40% – 60%
Floors
21% – 39%
BERDE Parameter 6.4 and
Philippine Green Building Code
Section 10.6.4 both discussed
lighting control in particular areas.
(Both specified their applicable
spaces.)
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Furniture
26% – 44%
6.6 EQ-PT-4: THERMAL CONTROL
Confirm the provision of user controls which allow
independent adjustment of cooling systems within the
building.
CRITERIA
Design the building cooling system to allow occupant
control of zoned areas within regularly occupied spaces.
The zoning should allow separate occupant control of
each area including perimeter spaces (e.g., having direct
access to solar heat gain), central zone (e.g., having no
direct access to solar heat gain) and other intermediate
spaces (such as corridors, etc).
6.7 EQ-PT-5: INDOOR AIR QUALITY
Maintain the reduction of users’ health risk due to poor
indoor air quality.
CRITERIA
Comply with the provisions of ASHRAE No. 62.1-2004:
Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality.
Place air intakes 20 meters beyond sources of external
pollution sources.
Provide 10 meters distance between intake and exhaust
of building heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning
(HVAC) system.
Ensure naturally ventilated areas are beyond 10 meters
of external pollution sources, and enforce a “No
Smoking” policy in the common areas of the building,
with smoking areas located 10 meters from entrances
and 20 meters from air intakes.
15.1 MINIMUM FRESH AIR RATES
General
The building indoor environment can contain more contaminants many
times over than the outside. Various studies have shown that indoor air
contaminants can cause health disorders, through symptoms of SBS and
BRI. The introduction and application of minimum fresh air rates will
maintain acceptable indoor air quality thru the constant replacement of
indoor air in buildings.
Requirements
Compliance to the minimum fresh air rates provided in the latest
Philippine Society of Ventilating, Air-Conditioning and Refrigerating
Engineers (PSVARE) Standards. See Table 16 Minimum Ventilation Rates
in Breathing Zone.
SIMILARITY/IES & CONTRAST/S:
Both BERDE Parameter 6.7 and
Philippine Green Building Code
Section 15.1 noted the health risk
brought by poor indoor air quality.
 Under BERDE Paramter 6.7:
- air intakes should be
place 20 meters beyond
sources of external
Pollution sources;
- 10 meters should be
provided between intake
and exhaust
 PGB Code Section 15.1
introduced the application of
minimum fresh air rates.
BERDE Parameter 6.7 and GB Code
Section 15.2 provided provisions
for smoking areas.
 BERDE Parameter 6.7 noted
to ensure enforce a “No
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE

Smoking” policy in common
areas with smoking areas
located 10 meters from
entrances and 20 meters from
air intakes.
GB Code has a provided a
whole section for smoking
area provisions indicating
specific requirements for
specific situations.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
15.2 DESIGNATED SMOKING AREA
General
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) is one of the leading causes of
respiratory illnesses in building occupants. RA 9211, the Tobacco
Regulations Act, restricts tobacco smoking in public spaces and the
prescription of designated smoking areas inside buildings.
Requirements
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
i.
ii.
iii.
If smoking is banned within the building and property
premises, “NO SMOKING” signs in compliance with the RA
9514 (Fire Code of the Philippines 2008), shall be posted in
conspicuous areas of the building and property premises to
remind building occupants of the policy.
If smoking is only allowed outdoors, designated smoking
areas shall be naturally ventilated, outside of the building
shell and away from building entrances, windows and
outside supply air (OSA) intakes by at least ten (10) meters.
If smoking is allowed indoors, designated smoking areas shall
be provided, partitioned from the rest of the indoor areas.
Partitions shall be from floor to soffit of the next floor or roof
structure. Enclosed smoking areas shall be equipped with
adequate exhaust system with exhaust rate in accordance
with the latest PSVARE Standards. Exhaust shall directly vent
out to the outside of the building and away from any building
openings or air intakes.
Doors and windows of enclosed smoking area shall always be closed and
well sealed. Negative pressure within is recommended to prevent smoke
infiltration to adjacent spaces.
6.8 EQ-PT-6: MICROBIAL CONTAMINATION PREVENTION
Reduce the risk of disease caused by growth of microbes
in building services equipment during operation, and
prevent outdoor pollutant and chemical sources from
contaminating the building’s indoor environment by
trapping dust, dirt, and other pollutants.
CRITERIA
Design all water systems in the building to comply with
measures to prevent Legionnaire’s disease.
Design all duct systems in the amenities and common
areas of the building to avoid microbial growth in the
duct system.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Provide entryway mats at all public entrances to airconditioned buildings or areas. Mats, carpets or grilles
that are mounted on the floor should be 3 meters
measured in the distance of travel into the building, and
may be installed indoors or outdoors, contiguously or in
parts. Mats, carpets or grilles should be part of the
regular maintenance cleaning program to ensure that
pollutants trapped in the mats or grills are regularly
disposed. Mats at emergency exits and private entrances
are not required.
6.9 EQ-PT-7: LOW VOC ENVIRONMENT
Maintain a healthy built environment by specifying
internal finishes with low Volatile Organic Compound
(VOC) content.
CRITERIA
Comply with the following for 60% of all indoor materials
used in the amenities and common areas:
 Green Seal GS-11 for architectural flat and nonflat paints
 Green Seal GS-03 for anti-corrosive and anti-rust
coatings
 South Coast Air Quality Management District
(SCAQMD) Rule #1113 for clear wood finishes,
floor coatings, stains, sealers, shellacs
 SCAQMD Rule #1168 for adhesives
Use materials certified under NELP-Green Choice
Philippines, or acceptable equivalent under the Global
Eco-labelling Network (GEN).
Provide a policy for the tenants to use low VOC materials
and adhesives.
12.1 NON-TOXIC MATERIALS
General
Non-Toxic building materials refer to building materials without
hazardous or toxic chemicals that could cause Sick Building Syndrome
(SBS) and eventually lead to Building Related Illness (BRI).
Requirements
i.
Paints, coatings, adhesives and sealants used indoors or nonventilated areas shall not contain Volatile Organic
Compounds (VOC) or should be within levels tolerable to
humans as specified in Table 14.
SIMILARITY/IES:
Both BERDE Parameter 6.9 and GB
Code Section 12.1 had provided
provisions for materials containing
VOC.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
ii.
iii.
Materials
7 MATERIALS
7.1 MT-PT-1: CIVIL WORKS
CRITERIA
Use materials with reduced negative environmental
impacts by taking into account the life cycle cost of
products for civil works. These include cement, steel, and
structural wood.
Composite wood shall not have urea formaldehyde content.
All other materials containing chemicals used in construction
shall not compromise and be deleterious to the health and
safety of the workers and occupants of the building.
Specifications shall comply with the allowable VOC limits as stated in
Table 14 with Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) from supplier and other
certification to justify the compliance of the material.
SECTION 12 MATERIAL SUSTAINABILITY
12.1 NON-TOXIC MATERIALS
General
Non-Toxic building materials refer to building materials without
hazardous or toxic chemicals that could cause Sick Building Syndrome
(SBS) and eventually lead to Building Related Illness (BRI).
Requirements
SIMILARITY/IES:
Both BERDE Parameter Materials
and GB Code Section 12 refer to
the use of materials containing
hazardous substances as building
materials.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Materials shall not contain hazardous substances such as
lead, mercury, hexavalent chromium, cadmium,
polybrominated biphenyls, and polybrominated
biphenyls ether.
Use wood sourced from companies that implement
forest management practices for 50% of all wood used
for structural components. These companies should
conform to existing Philippine forestry laws and
regulations and has in place a replanting and
reforestation program.
i.
Paints, coatings, adhesives and sealants used indoors or nonventilated areas shall not contain Volatile Organic
Compounds (VOC) or should be within levels tolerable to
humans as specified in Table 14.
Under GB Code,
- specified the use of building
materials that shall not
compromise and be
deleterious to the health and
safety of the workers and
occupants of the building
- listed the VOC limits per
material
Use structurally sound and industry accepted substitute
mixes such as fly-ash, slag, silica, or others, and recycled
materials in concrete aggregates for the recycled content
of 20% of cement used (percentage based on volume).
Use structurally sound and industry accepted substitutes
for the recycled content of 20% of steel materials used
(percentage based on volume).
These products should be certified by a third-party
certification body demonstrating compliance to ISO/IEC
Guide 65 – General requirements for bodies operating
product certification systems.
ii.
iii.
Composite wood shall not have urea formaldehyde content.
All other materials containing chemicals used in construction
shall not compromise and be deleterious to the health and
safety of the workers and occupants of the building.
Specifications shall comply with the allowable VOC limits as stated in
Table 14 with Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) from supplier and other
certification to justify the compliance of the material.
7.2 MT-PT-2: ELECTRICAL WORKS
CRITERIA
CONTRAST/S:
Under BERDE,
- specified the use of materials
with reduced negative
environmental impacts
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Use materials with reduced environmental impacts by
taking into account the life cycle cost of products in
electrical works. These products include lamps and
ballasts.
Use of materials certified under NELP-Green Choice
Philippines, or an acceptable equivalent under the Global
Eco-labelling Network (GEN).
Materials shall not contain hazardous substances.
Mercury content shall not exceed 5mg per lamp for
compact fluorescent lamps, 5mg for linear fluorescent
lamps with normal life time, and 8mg for linear
fluorescent lamps with long life time. Ballasts should
bear a CE marking as a pre-requisite requirement of
Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS).
Enforce a policy for the tenants to use electrical materials
with reduced environmental impacts.
7.3 MT-PT-3: ARCHITECTURAL WORKS AND FINISHES
CRITERIA
Use finishes and materials with reduced environmental
impacts by taking into account the life cycle cost of
products for architectural works. These include glass,
wood and wood products, metals, textile, ceramic tiles
and cement, plastics, acoustic and ceiling tiles, rubber,
and concrete hollow blocks.
Use salvaged materials for non-structural purposes.
Use materials certified under NELP-Green Choice
Philippines, or acceptable equivalent under the Global
Eco-labelling Network (GEN).
Comply with one or any combination of the following for
20% (by cost) of all materials:
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE



Emissions
Use wood sourced from companies that implement
forest management practices that conform to
existing Philippine forestry laws and regulations and
has in place a replanting and reforestation program.
These products should be certified by a third-party
certification body demonstrating compliance to
ISO/IEC Guide 65 – General requirements for bodies
operating product certification systems.
Use rapidly renewable materials (i.e. bamboo, cork,
etc.).
Use materials with recycled content.
Provide a policy for the tenants to use interior materials
and finishes with reduced environmental impacts.
8 EMISSIONS
8.1 EM-PT-1: POLLUTANT AND GREENHOUSE GAS
INVENTOR
Verify that equivalent carbon emissions of the
educational institution have been recorded by the
execution a Life Cycle Inventory (LCI).
CRITERIA
Conduct an LCI and account for values for the following:
 Criteria air pollutants as defined by the Clean Air
Act: carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides
(NOx), lead (Pb), sulphur dioxide (SO2),
particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), ozone (O3)
and ozone precursors: volatile organic
compounds (VOC) and ammonia (NH3).
 Greenhouse gases: carbon dioxide (CO2),
methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and
fluorinated gases: hydrofluorocarbons,
perfluorocarbons, and sulphur hexafluoride.
 Hazardous air pollutants as defined by the Clean
Air Act such as cadmium, formaldehyde, and
lead, radon, and asbestos.
8.2 EM-PT-2: OZONE PROTECTION
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Maintain the reduction of ozone depleting substance use
for refrigerants and fire suppression systems, and
confirm the provision of measures to monitor and
prevent refrigerant leak. Verify the reduction of
refrigerant emissions caused by leakages from the
cooling plant to the atmosphere, and confirm the
implementation of an automatic permanent refrigerant
leak detection system.
CRITERIA
Avoid the use of ozone-depleting substances for
refrigerants and fire suppression systems.
Specify and implement an automatic permanent
refrigerant leak detection system for the building.
8.3 EM-PT-3: EMISSION CONTROL
Confirm the provision and implementation of measures
to mediate the emissions from equipment, which involve
combustion or burning.
Waste
CRITERIA
Verify that strategies have been implemented to alter the
emissions of the building into an air quality level within
DENR standards at a minimum
9 WASTE
9.1 WS-RQ-1: WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN
Confirm the implementation of an overall waste
management plan for the operational life of the building.
CRITERIA
Establish a waste management plan that enables
compliance to national and local waste policies.
Provide an outline of waste streams and quantities to be
managed.
9.2 WS-RQ-2: WASTE MANAGEMENT – DURING
CONSTRUCTION
SECTION 13 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Ensure the appropriate management of waste during
construction to promote resource efficiency.
CRITERIA
Establish a waste management system that would aid in
the following:
 Internal collection and segregation;
 Collection and disposal/recycling by qualified
vendors or material handlers;
 Monitoring of amount and type of waste for
disposal by weight or volume, and amount and
type of waste that can still be reused by weight
or volume;
 Reuse of construction waste; and
 Disposal
9.3 WS-PT-1: CONSTRUCTION WASTE DIVERSION
Prove the diversion of 60% of construction waste from
landfill from established construction waste management
system.
CRITERIA
Document and attain diversion of construction waste
from landfill from established construction waste
management system.
9.4 WS-PT-2: MATERIALS RECOVERY FACILITY
Confirm the provision of a dedicated storage facility for
the waste generated during the operational life of the
building, which will include the segregation of waste.
13.1 MATERIAL RECOVERY FACILITY (MRF)
General
MRF shall be provided for the collection and segregation of solid waste
materials
CRITERIA
Requirements
Comply with the following requirements for the Materials
i.
Buildings shall be provided with a minimum area for MRF as
Recovery Facility (MRF):
specified in Table 15.
 Provide contained areas that are clearly marked
for segregated waste such as biodegradable, nonbiodegradable and recyclable at a minimum;
SIMILARITY/IES:
Both BERDE and GB Code had
provided provisons for Materials
Recovery Facility
- Under BERDE Parameter 9.4
and GB Code Section 13.1,
MRF should be easily
accessible.
CONTRAST/S:
Under BERDE Parameter 9.4,
provided contained areas that are
marked for segregated waste.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE

Locate the facility in an area within accessible
reach of the building occupants and with good
vehicular access to facilitate collections;
 Allocate adequate space to store the projected
volume of waste generated during the operation
of the building. The following must be complied
with as a minimum:
o At least 2m2 per 1000m2 of net floor area for
buildings < 5000m2
o A minimum of 10m2 for buildings ≥ 5000 m2
o An additional 2m2 per 1000m2 of net floor
area where catering is provided (with an
additional minimum of 10m2 for buildings
≥5000m2).
Provide a policy for the tenants to segregate wastes
generated.
Heritage
Conservation
10 HERITAGE CONSERVATION
10.1 HC-RQ-1: CONSERVATION ASSESSMENT
Maintain the preservation and protection of heritage,
historic, or cultural sites, structures and/or properties
and promote local culture alongside implemented green
building practices.
CRITERIA
Use green building practices in the conservation process
without compromising the original aesthetic features or
historical significance of the project.
Under GB Code Section 13.1,
provided four types of wastes.
ii.
MRF shall be fully enclosed and easily accessible from within
the building and from the outside for easy collection of
waste.
iii.
Solid waste containers shall be provided for at least four (4)
types of wastes:
- compostable (biodegradable)
- non-recyclable (to be disposed off in the landfill)
- recyclable (paper, cardboard, plastic, plastic, metal,
wood, etc.)
- special waste
For hospitals, isolated bins for hazardous wastes shall be provided to
avoid contamination
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
Use green construction methods/systems that will
comply with the concept of “the least intervention is the
best conservation.”
10.2 HC-PT-1: HERITAGE FEATURE PROTECTION
Maintain the protection of features of aesthetic and
historical significance in the project which are at risk of
destruction.
CRITERIA
Use designs that retain/preserve the significant heritage
features of the project, and materials/alternative
materials/systems that promote green building practices
in the conservation process.
10.3 HC-PT-2: HERITAGE FEATURES PROMOTION
Promote the building as significant heritage reflective of
the artistry and ingenuity of its builders, and indicative of
significant turning points in Philippine history, art, and
architecture through the use of green building
systems/methods/practice or adaptive reuse.
CRITERIA
Use green building practices in the conservation process
without compromising the original aesthetic features of
the building, e.g. architectural style.
Use green construction methods/systems that will
comply with the concept of "reversibility in conservation"
and "the least intervention is the best conservation."
Employ adaptive reuse of the building that promotes
green building.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE
COMPARISON BETWEEN PHILIPPINE GREEN BUILDING CODE AND BERDE