Philippine Green Building Code Regulations Quiz

Purpose and Scope of the Green Building Code

• The Green Building Code aims to promote sustainable development and minimize the environmental impact of buildings.
• The code regulations must be complied with by building owners, designers, and contractors.

Benefits of Green Buildings

• Occupants of green buildings benefit from improved indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and natural lighting.
• Green buildings provide a healthier and more comfortable living and working environment.

Focus of the Green Building Code

• The code focuses on the design and construction phase of a building's life-cycle.
• It emphasizes the efficient use of resources, including water, energy, and materials.
• The code prioritizes environmental management, including waste reduction and pollution prevention.

Review and Application of the Green Building Code

• The Climate Change Commission is responsible for the periodic review of the Green Building Code.
• The purpose of the review is to ensure the code remains relevant and effective in promoting sustainable development.
• The code applies to all new buildings and existing buildings undergoing renovation or expansion.
• Exemptions are made for certain buildings, such as detached single-family dwellings and buildings with a total floor area of less than 500 square meters.
• The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) oversees the application of the Green Building Code.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Duly authorized representatives from the Climate Change Commission are responsible for reviewing building permit applications for Green Buildings.
• Design professionals must prepare building permit applications in compliance with the Green Building Code requirements.
• The United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) represents the Philippine Association of Landscape Architects.

Sustainable Design and Construction

• One key consideration during site clearing, grading, and excavation is the protection of endemic foliage.
• Buildings should be designed to maximize air tightness, with details such as complete gaskets, weather-stripping, and seals around windows and doors.
• A building site erosion and sedimentation control plan is necessary to prevent soil erosion and sedimentation.
• The Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) is used to determine the amount of solar heat admitted through glass.
• The inclusion of green areas in building development benefits the environment by reducing urban heat island effects and stormwater runoff.

Building Design and Operation

• Balancing the Window to Wall Ratio (WWR) is important in building design to ensure natural lighting and reduce energy consumption.
• The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) oversees the protection of endemic foliage during construction.
• A stormwater collection management plan is necessary to prevent water pollution and reduce the risk of flooding.
• The external facade of buildings should have moisture protection to prevent water damage and erosion.
• Air tightness is important in building design to reduce energy consumption, prevent moisture damage, and improve indoor air quality.