BERDE for You: Your Guide to Choosing an Energy-Efficient Home in the Philippines
Image courtesy of James Kovin @ Unsplash.
The challenge of escalating electricity expenses is a common concern among many Filipinos who aspire for a comfortable living space yet are apprehensive about the associated energy costs.
In this context, the Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence (BERDE) program emerges as a pivotal solution. This program evaluates and rates the ecological sustainability of buildings, promoting a choice that is not only environmentally responsible but also economical.
Opting for a BERDE-certified home significantly reduces energy consumption, yielding substantial savings on monthly electricity bills. Furthermore, it contributes to creating a living environment that is healthier and more comfortable. Delve into the advantages of a BERDE-certified home to achieve a sustainable and cost-efficient lifestyle.
What is BERDE?
BERDE stands for Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence. It represents a commitment to eco-friendly construction practices. As a local rating system, BERDE assesses the environmental friendliness of a building.
Given the Philippines' unique climate, which can be beautiful and challenging, focusing on energy efficiency is crucial. BERDE encourages the development of properties that are both environmentally respectful and economically favorable.
BERDE contributes to building cooler homes for a more sustainable future by promoting designs that lessen reliance on air conditioning. Additionally, for developers, adhering to BERDE standards appeals to buyers who are mindful of the environment and may also provide financial incentives through tax benefits, achieving a harmony between ecological responsibility and business success.
Understanding BERDE Levels
BERDE certification is not a one-size-fits-all scheme; it ranges across levels to indicate a building's efficiency and environmental friendliness. These levels — 1 Star to 5 Stars — mirror a home's commitment to sustainability.
A 1-star rating signifies basic eco-friendly practices, such as water conservation features. Homes with a 2-star rating have enhanced energy efficiency through improved insulation. At the 3-star level, sustainability is significantly prioritized, incorporating on-site renewable energy sources. Homes rated at 4 stars are nearly independent of the grid, showcasing advanced eco-friendly measures.
Selecting the appropriate level depends on personal preferences and financial considerations. A 1-star rating represents a commendable starting point, while 3-star or 4-star ratings are more advantageous for those seeking substantial electricity savings. The goal is to choose a BERDE-certified home that meets your requirements and positively influences your environmental footprint.
BERDE for You: Empowering Filipino Homebuyers
Investing in a BERDE-certified home might seem expensive compared to non-certified properties. However, consider it a wise investment. Like an energy-efficient appliance that eventually pays for itself, a BERDE home can considerably reduce electricity costs. Consider the savings on air conditioning thanks to a design that keeps the home naturally cooler.
However, the benefits of BERDE certification extend beyond financial savings. These homes offer better ventilation and natural light, leading to a brighter and healthier living environment that can boost your mood and might even lower the risk of respiratory issues. Additionally, the growing popularity of BERDE-certified homes means they are likely to retain or increase in value over time.
Opting for a BERDE home is a smart financial decision and a step towards a sustainable future for the Philippines. By choosing energy-efficient and eco-friendly living, you contribute to conserving resources for the next generations. It represents a beneficial choice for your finances, health, and the planet.
Making the BERDE Choice – A Step-by-Step Guide
Interested in joining the BERDE initiative? Here's your guide to getting started!
Explore Your Ideal BERDE Home
Thanks to the Philippine Green Building Council's website (philgbc.org), accessing a list of certified properties is straightforward. For added convenience, applications are designed to refine your search based on location.
Investigate Potential Options
When you spot potential options, don't hesitate to ask further. It's important to understand the details like the BERDE certification level, the eco-friendly materials used in construction, and how the design contributes to reducing your energy expenses.
Prioritize Your Needs
Remember, the perfect BERDE home varies for everyone. Consider what's important to you, whether it's maximizing energy efficiency or using sustainable materials.
Choose a Home That Aligns with You
The goal is to choose a BERDE home that meets your requirements and aligns with your commitment to sustainability.
Living Green: Beyond BERDE
BERDE serves as an excellent initial step, yet there is always potential to enhance one's commitment to environmental conservation. Regardless of whether one resides in a BERDE-certified household, significant contributions towards eco-friendliness can still be made.
For instance, replacing old incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lighting is a simple yet effective measure. Additionally, opting for appliances that conserve water during their upgrade process can substantially reduce one's ecological footprint and electricity expenses. It's important to recognize that achieving sustainability is a collective effort.
Engaging in conversations with neighbors and organizing events like community garage sales can promote the reuse of items, thereby extending their lifecycle. Encouraging your local community association to adopt more environmentally friendly practices contributes to building an eco-conscious community. The Philippines boasts abundant natural beauty, and it is our responsibility to safeguard these treasures for the enjoyment of future generations.
Transforming Your Green Insights into Reality
Empowered by your BERDE knowledge? Choosing an energy-efficient home in the Philippines is a powerful act. It creates a ripple effect – saving money, reducing environmental impact, and inspiring others. Remember, BERDE caters to various needs, so a perfect sustainable haven awaits you.
Just like BERDE, BillionBricks shares the vision of a sustainable Philippines. We're constantly innovating to develop affordable, high-quality homes. Who knows? Maybe our paths will cross someday, and together, we can create the perfect blend of affordability and eco-friendly living.
Discover how you can live sustainably in our net-zero homes in San Mateo, Rizal, and Iligan, Lanao Del Norte, Philippines. For more information on owning an eco-friendly home with BillionBricks, please email us at hello@billionbricks.org.
If you're interested in BillionBricks' further exploration of sustainable housing, check out another article that provides additional insights: BillionBricks' Net Zero Homes: Providing a Solution to the Housing Crisis.
References:
BERDE – Version 4.2.0. (n.d.). https://docs.berdeonline.org/userguide/latest/#scoring-and-rating.
Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence (BERDE) (2014). ESCI KSP. https://www.esci-ksp.org/archives/project/building-for-ecologically-responsive-design-excellence-berde.
Pabellano, P. C. (2023, June 6). Sustainable House architecture: house Interior design of a net zero home — BillionBricks. BillionBricks. https://billionbricks.org/updates/sustainable-house-architecture-house-interior-design-of-a-net-zero-home?rq=LED%20lights.
Philippine Green Building Council - World Green Building Council. (2021, September 13). World Green Building Council. https://worldgbc.org/gbc/philippine-green-building-council/.
