Green architecture in PH: Progress, challenges, and the road ahead

Green architecture in the Philippines has evolved significantly over the past decade, driven by growing awareness of climate change, the rising cost of energy, and an increasingly eco-conscious market.

From innovative office towers in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) to sustainable residential developments across the country, the momentum behind green buildings is undeniable. But how far have we come, and what challenges remain on the horizon?

Current landscape: Certified green buildings

The Philippines boasts of a growing number of green-certified buildings, thanks to programs like the Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE) certification system. These projects span a wide variety of uses, including office spaces, residential buildings, retail facilities, hotels, and even industrial plants. This diversity highlights the broad applicability of green architecture principles, demonstrating that sustainability is no longer confined to high-end developments.

In Metro Manila, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified projects dominate the skyline, reaffirming the capital region’s role as a leader in sustainable urban development.

In regional hubs such as Cebu and Davao, LEED-certified developments are also on the rise. These cities are embracing sustainability not only to protect the environment, but also to attract investors and businesses seeking green office spaces.

Arthaland Century Pacific Tower is the first net zero carbon project in the world, certified under the IFC’s EDGE Green Building Program. The Philippine Green Building Initiative is the authorized certifier of the EDGE Certification System. —CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

Beyond office buildings

While office towers currently dominate the green building landscape, there’s an encouraging shift toward other types of developments.

Sustainability in residential projects, in particular, is gaining traction as developers recognize the growing demand for eco-friendly homes. Townhouses, single-detached homes, and even resort-themed residential units are incorporating sustainability principles into their design.

Hotels and resorts are another burgeoning sector. With the Philippines’ thriving tourism industry, integrating green architecture into leisure facilities has become a logical step. Beyond reducing operational costs, such measures resonate with environment conscious travelers, adding a competitive edge to these establishments.

Challenges in the green architecture movement

Green architecture in the Philippines, however, faces significant hurdles.

Economic uncertainties, rising construction costs, and the persistent affordability gap are some of the key barriers. Many developers struggle to reconcile upfront costs of green building features with their long term benefits.

Another challenge lies in public perception. Although awareness of environmental issues is growing, not all Filipinos fully grasp the advantages of green buildings. Educational campaigns and government incentives are crucial to bridging this gap and fostering greater adoption.

The path to a greener future

On a positive note, the Philippines is uniquely positioned to lead in sustainable architecture. With its abundant natural resources and a tropical climate conducive to passive cooling designs, the country has a natural advantage.

Developers have increasingly embraced bioclimatic principles, incorporating natural ventilation, solar shading, and rainwater harvesting systems into their projects. Government initiatives, like tax incentives for green-certified buildings and promotion of renewable energy, also offer a solid foundation for growth.

Additionally, the EDGE certification system, with its user-friendly platform and focus on measurable outcomes, has made sustainability more accessible to a wider range of stakeholders.

The Menarco office building in BGC and the Arthaland Century Pacific Tower have set new standards for energy efficiency, water conservation, and indoor air quality.

Trends and predictions

The road ahead for green architecture in the Philippines is paved with promise. As more developers recognize the financial and social benefits of sustainability, the number of green-certified projects is expected to grow.

Here are some of the key trends to watch out for.

Resort-themed residential developments. As demand for lifestyle-focused housing increases, developers are blending eco-friendly features with resort-style amenities.

Net zero energy buildings. With advancements in renewable energy technology, net zero energy projects are becoming more feasible. These buildings generate as much energy as they consume, reducing their carbon footprint dramatically.

Smart building technologies. Innovations such as smart meters, automated lighting systems, and AI-driven energy management tools are making buildings more efficient than ever.

Regional expansion. While Metro Manila remains the epicenter of green architecture, there’s growing interest in sustainable developments in Cebu, Davao, and other regional hubs.

A collaborative effort

The journey toward widespread green architecture adoption in the Philippines is a collaborative effort. Architects, developers, policymakers, and end-users all play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable built environment. By prioritizing innovation, education, and collaboration, we can overcome the challenges and realize the full potential of green architecture.

The Philippines has the opportunity to not only catch up with global trends but also to set its own standards that showcase a uniquely Filipino approach to sustainability. And as we build for the future, one thing is clear: sustainability is not just an option—it’s the blueprint for progress.

The author is the Principal Architect of A. P. De Jesus & Associates–Green Architecture. For comments or inquiries, email amadodejesus@gmail.com